The first of its kind beauty contest was held in Odisha, as an aim to uplift the tribal communities. It was organised by the by the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences with the support of SC & ST Department, Government of Odisha and the State Tourism Department, on Monday. About 22 tribal communities participated in the beauty contest. Pallavi Darua, was crowned the winner at Adi Rani 2018.
Panchami Majhi of Titlagarh and Rashmirekha Hansdah of Mayurbhanj were declared as the first and second runners-up of the beauty pageant respectively.
Three of them will now feature in a movie on tribal culture, which is to be produced by a Mumbai-based producer.
Besides that, special awards were also given in seven different categories including tribal attire, photogenic face, best skin, best personality, the best presentation of ornaments, the best presentation of own culture and best in talent. The jury included a pool of guests from national and state-level, headed by Padma Shri Tulasi Munda, who is also the ambassador of the event.
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“Many tribal girls like me are not allowed to move around or study. After winning this crown, I hope I can be an example for others and they will also shed the superstitions and face the world,” Pallavi said.
The contestants were asked a range of different questions, ranging from topics like beauty in nature to representing their tribal culture by speaking their language. They kept the audience mesmerised either with some lovely folk dance or their soothing songs and proudly walked the ramp in their colourful attires.
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“Today, we have created history. We have conducted a national level programme highlighting tribal cultures of our country. A ‘rani’ or a ‘queen’ is not only about beauty. Usually, when we talk about tribes, we represent them through their dance or art form. Through this contest, we have tried to give them their individual identity,” said Dr Chidatmika Khatua, Chief Secretary General of the award committee.