Gopalpur Beach Festival Kicks Off in Ganjam, Odisha with Grand Inauguration

• The four-day Gopalpur beach festival commenced in Ganjam district, Odisha, inaugurated by Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati.
• Thousands of attendees, primarily from Berhampur and nearby villages, flocked to the tourist town on the opening day.
• Mashaals from Shakti shrines like Maa Tara Tarini, Bala Kumari, and Bagdevi were received by the Governor before the inauguration.
• Governor Kambhampati highlighted Gopalpur's significance as a blend of history, tradition, and progress, emphasizing the coastline's role in livelihood and aspiration.
• The opening rituals included 'Samudra arati', a worship performed by Varanasi priests to seek blessings from the sea for prosperity and protection.

Why It Matters: Gopalpur Beach Festival begins in Ganjam, Odisha, celebrating culture, history, and coastal heritage.