Amarnath, Mumbai
To preserve Sambalpuri language, literature, culture, customs, traditions, folk practices, heritage, and identity, the Western Odisha division of “Aao Next” organized the “Aao Next Juhar Meet” program in Sambalpur. On this occasion, the “Aao Next Juhar” OTT platform was inaugurated by Padma Shri awardee Jitendra Haripal.
The event was graced by guests such as Aao Next CEO and Founder Kaushik Das, Aao Next Creative Head for Western Odisha Jayaprakash Kuamr, Aao Next OTT platform co-founder Ram Pattnayak, and Chief Manager of State Bank of India Shyamananda Tali as the honored guest.
At the celebration, personalities like Padma Shri Jitendra Haripal, Kamalesh Chakraborty, actor Jagannath Seth, Ratan Meher, playback singer Pankaj Jaal, and music director Kamalesh Chakraborty were present. Actor Ratan Pujari and comedian Jojo were also felicitated during the program.
This launch by Aao Next is expected to bring a revolutionary change in Odisha’s digital media space and accelerate the process of decentralization. “Aao Next Juhar” will further highlight Sambalpuri identity.
The Odisha-based OTT platform “Aao Next” aims to create high-quality films and music in collaboration with local artists, poets, writers, directors, and technical experts from Western Odisha’s art and literature field. For the diverse communities of Western Odisha, a cultural message titled Lokamananka Kala Bhet will be released on August 28. The Sambalpuri web series “Kerek” will also be launched.
The festival also featured the trailer launch of this web series, poster launches of Sambalpuri films Sapan and Meria, and announcements of short films like Raymati and Peten. Additionally, several musical videos were launched. All these developments are a matter of pride for the Sambalpur region.
The event concluded with Aao Next extending its greetings and gratitude to everyone.
