Aditya Alumina Refinery’s Children’s Festival lights up Tikiri with joy, creativity and learning

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

TIKIRI, DECEMBER 11, 2025

The grounds of Podapadi High School transformed into a vibrant hub of imagination and discovery as Aditya Alumina Refinery, a unit of Hindalco Industries Limited under the Aditya Birla Group, hosted its much-awaited Children’s Festival on December 8. The colourful celebration brought together more than 700 students from 14 schools, turning an ordinary day into an extraordinary canvas of learning, creativity, and youthful exuberance.

The festival was inaugurated by Mazhar Beig, Unit Head & President of Aditya Alumina Refinery, in the presence of key dignitaries including Pabitra Nayak, ABEO-Kashipur, and Padmini Pujari, Headmistress of Podapadi High School. Their presence, along with that of senior officials such as Ramesh Duvada, Head-Construction; Basudeb Khuntia, Head-F&C; Deepak Mohanty, Head–HR, IR, RR, CSR & OHC; Tanmaya Mohanty, Project Manager–CSR & RnR; SMC President Arjun Jhudia; Ex-SMC President Bijay Ratna Choudhury; and community leaders Ramakanta Mohanty and Rajendra Duria, set the tone for a spirited and collaborative event.

A major attraction of the festival were the six interactive learning stalls on Art, Science, Mathematics, Environment, Yoga & Wellness, and Teaching Learning Materials (TLM). Each stall became a hotspot of exploration as students engaged in hands-on experiments, creative expressions, and knowledge-enhancing activities curated to spark curiosity and holistic development. Cultural performances added further charm to the day, giving children the chance to showcase their artistic talents while celebrating the region’s rich cultural vibrancy.

The festival’s “dummy dolls and food court” drew special delight, creating an atmosphere of wonder and excitement as students enjoyed the playful installations and savoury treats. To honour their participation, every child received a prize and a certificate, ensuring that each young learner went home with a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Addressing the gathering, Mazhar Beig highlighted the organisation’s commitment to nurturing young minds. “Children are the foundation of our future, and it is our responsibility to create spaces that encourage learning, creativity, and holistic development. The festival celebrates the talent and potential of every child, and we are proud to be part of their learning journey,” he said.

The resounding success of the Children’s Festival left an enduring imprint on students, educators, and the local community. Through this initiative, Aditya Alumina Refinery reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening education and empowering young learners, illuminating the path for future leaders emerging from the heart of Tikiri.