June 30th 2024.
In the quaint village of Katulikana, nestled in the heart of Keonjhar district, there is a special makeshift bamboo bridge that serves as a vital link between two districts. This humble bridge connects the village to the neighboring Mayurbhanj district, specifically to the Budamara Kesari panchayat. With no permanent bridge in sight, the locals brave the dangerous journey across the Baitarani river on this fair weather bridge, risking their lives to reach their destinations.
Every year, during the monsoon season, the temporary bridge is washed away by the floodwaters, and needs to be reconstructed. The villagers of Katulikana have a special belief about this spot, known as 'Kesarikund'. They say that in ancient times, the mighty Bhima from the Mahabharata came here to bathe, giving the place its name. Today, it is a popular tourist spot, with thousands of devotees taking a holy dip in the Baitarani river during the auspicious festival of Makar Sankranti.
The villagers of Katulikana and Budamara Kesari panchayat may be divided by the river, but they share a strong cultural bond. It is not uncommon for families on both sides to have relatives living in the other district. And during Makar Sankranti, the entire community comes together to celebrate with great enthusiasm. But despite this deep connection, the lack of a permanent bridge makes it difficult for the people to travel between the two districts.
Sarpanch Supriya Munda of Karanjia panchayat in Champua block, where the village is located, expressed the need for a bridge to make it easier for the people to access Mayurbhanj district. Similarly, Jhunu Naik, the sarpanch of Kesari panchayat in Mayurbhanj, also requested a permanent bridge for the convenience of both districts. It is estimated that more than four panchayats in Champua block, including Karanjia, Chandrasekharpur, Badanai, and Sarei, regularly use this bridge as it is the shortest route between the two districts. Taking a longer detour can add up to 20 to 22 kilometers to their journey, making it a time-consuming and tedious trip.
The bridge, although small and narrow, is a lifeline for the villagers. It is mainly used by two-wheelers and pedestrians, and a small fee is charged for its maintenance. Farmers also utilize this bridge to reach the market on the other side of the river, where they can sell their produce. But more than just a means of transportation, this bridge holds a special significance for the people of both districts. It is a symbol of the cultural harmony and traditional customs shared by the residents of Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar, and it is through this bridge that they continue to exchange their customs and traditions, both in public and private gatherings.
In conclusion, the 'bridge of relation' may be a simple, humble structure made of bamboo and wood, but it plays a crucial role in the lives of the villagers of Katulikana and Budamara Kesari panchayat. It is not just a bridge that connects two districts, but also a bridge that connects hearts, cultures, and traditions. The construction of a permanent bridge would not only bring convenience and safety but also strengthen the bond between the people of Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj districts.
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