Deogarh: In a passionate display of unity and patriotism, Kirtanpali village in Odisha’s Deogarh district gathers every morning to hoist the national flag and sing the national anthem. Practiced at dawn, this daily tradition has become a symbol of pride and unity for the community, and an inspiring example for other villages in the area
Located in the Reemal block, Kirtanpali is known for its unique event that instills a deep sense of national pride in people. Villagers of all ages, genders gather at a designated spot in front of the Ban Surkhya Samiti (BSS) pavilion at 6 am, where local Anganwadi worker Geetanjali Behera presides over the flag-raising ceremony. The sound of drums played by BSS members summons the villagers to assemble in queue for the morning ritual.
The village’s commitment to this cause is evident in the infrastructure that has been built. Private donations totaling ₹30,000 were used to erect a platform overlooking Mahatma Gandhi’s “Three Monkeys” statues, install a loudspeaker and erect a half-sized memorial to Gandhi himself Villagers say this daily ritual is not patriotic gives only a sense of love, compassion and truth.
Kirtanpali has won recognition not only for his patriotic zeal, but also for his commitment to cleanliness and social responsibility. The village has the distinction of being ‘open defecation free’ and has been recognized as a clean and green village by the Government of India. In addition, the state government supports village agricultural initiatives through scientific methods, to increase agricultural production.
Over the years, Kirtan Pali has won many awards for being alcohol free and clean
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