Post News Network
Bhubaneswar, April 11: As many as 68 Oriya women from across the state together blew the signature ‘Hulahuli’ during a contest in order to bag the title of ‘Srestha Oriyani’ at a competition held at Ekamra Haat in the city Saturday.
The four-day long Srestha Oriyani competition was organised by a monthly magazine here.
“We have been holding this competition for the last 10 years in order to pay tribute to the spirit of Oriya women. Participants will be judged, among other parameters, on the basis of how long they managed to blow the ‘Hulahuli’,” said Smruti Mohanty, the judge.
Women participated in the competition with much enthusiasm. “I have come all the way from Phulbani to take part in this competition. Here, we try to open ourselves up and feel proud to be Oriya women. Such competitions help in asserting our identity and make us feel proud of our roots,” said Sukanti Bala Samantray, participant.
Moreover, a variety of pithas like Kakra, Arisa, Khaja of Puri Temple, Sijha, Manda, Pheni, Poda Pitha, Rasa Bara and more were made by the participants in another competition held after the ‘Hulahuli’ competition.
“Judges will taste the handmade pithas and will judge the participants. Many experienced as well as first-time participants have taken part this time,” said an organiser.