Bhubaneswar : Showcasing the rich ecological tourism sites and biodiversity hotspots and wildlife treasure 80th Patha Utsav organised all its events centered on wildlife and eco-tourism. The theme was “Eco-tourism of Odisha — the Soul of Incredible India”.
Itishree Dixit and group created a beautiful Rangoli depicting the rich biodiversity and ecotourism wealth of the state and how it attracts a large footfall of visitors. Ecotourism destinations across the state have created a niche in the minds of nature lovers.
Dedi Loku, the costumed green superhero, wearing a green cape and a mask, returned to 80th Patha Utsav. Dedi Loku, which means Tree-Man in the Kui language, was seen engaging with people at the Bakul Library.
Dedi Loku said that she had returned to Patha Utsav as the theme promotes eco-tourism and conserving forests. She was assisted by volunteers of Bakul Foundation, who tried to engage curious onlookers and urged them to take pictures with Dedi Loku. The ‘Tree-Man’ also talked to them about the urgency to save the planet and urged them to adopt the practice of giving plants as gifts.
It is interesting to note that Dedi Loku is gender neutral and appears as a woman and sometimes as a man.
Prachitara’s story-telling session taught children the importance of conserving trees through the story of ‘The Woodcutter and Tree’.
City based welfare and social service organisation Helpmate organised an event which displayed rare photographs of Mahatma Gandhi’s visit to Odisha on various occasions. The Father of the Nation spread the message of cleanliness respecting Nature.