Pallavi Durua was crowned the first ever Tribal Queen at the Adi Rani Kalinga Tribal Queen competition which was held at Utkal Mandap. Pallavi who hails from Koraput was extremely happy upon winning the title.
“I had never expected that I will be the winner of the event. I am extremely happy that I am crowned as the first Tribal Queen of the country.” said Pallavi. This first of a kind beauty contest, which was organized by Kalinga Gaurav witnessed winners being announced in seven different categories. “I thank Kalinga Gaurav for organising this event where I got an opportunity to represent my tribe here in the presence of many dignitaries and huge gathering.” she said.
She further went on to say, “”Many tribal girls like me are not allowed to move around or study. After winning this crown, I hope I can be an example for others and they will also shed the superstitions and face the world.” At the same event, Panchami Majhi of Titlagarh was declared as the first runners-up while Rashmirekha Hansdah of Mayurbhanj was adjudged second runners-up.
Panchami Majhi, who was declared the first runner-up, said, “It is one of the best platforms for us, the tribals, to come forward. I will never forget my tribe, tradition, language and culture wherever I may go and whatever I may become as it is because of them I am here.”The beauty pageant was conducted with the prime objective to uplift tribal women, promote tribal art and culture. Over 150 contestants from 25 different states participated in the pageant.
Prasanta Patnaik 
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