Bhubaneswar, November 11, 2026:Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer, celebrated Diwali with a series of festive engagements at its operations in Jharsuguda, BALCO, Lanjigada and Mines. The celebrations brought together employees, their families, artisans, women entrepreneurs and community members through festive markets, cultural programmes and community gatherings, marking the Festival of Lights with enthusiasm and togetherness.
Speaking on the occasion, Rajesh Kumar, CEO, VAML, said, “Festivals hold a special place in our society because they carry forward traditions, values and ways of life from one generation to the next. They also create opportunities for local artisans, entrepreneurs and communities to showcase their skills and aspirations. At VAML, we see these occasions as a celebration of the cultural richness that surrounds our operations and contributes to the identity of the regions we call home. Through such celebrations, we continue to support and celebrate the people, traditions and enterprise that keep these communities vibrant.”
In Jharsuguda, Diwali highlighted the growing appeal of traditional craftsmanship and women-led enterprise. Through Project VedKala and Project Subhalaxmi Udyogini, artisans and self-help group members showcased eco-friendly products such as Saura art terracotta diyas, bamboo diya stands, Sabai grass diya covers and handcrafted terracotta diyas with soya wax candles. Displayed at the district-level Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS) Diwali Exhibition, the products reached wider markets and received appreciation from senior district officials. Collectively, these initiatives recorded sales of over ₹16,000, while providing valuable market exposure to rural women and artisans.
At Lanjigada, the festive spirit extended beyond the celebrations into a marketplace of local enterprise. Sakhi Bazaar brought together women entrepreneurs offering handmade candles, diyas, sweets, spices, ragi snacks, honey and other locally produced products, giving visitors an opportunity to support homegrown businesses during the festive season. Alongside the marketplace, food stalls, music and recreational activities added to the atmosphere, while the War of Cubicles decoration competition encouraged employees to creatively bring the spirit of Diwali into the workplace.
For employees and families across Vedanta’s mining operations, Diwali offered a welcome break from everyday routines. More than 60 participants across Belpahar and Raigarh took part in games, Lakshmi Puja and Aarti, fireworks and shared meals. The celebrations provided an opportunity to mark the occasion with colleagues, friends and loved ones while enjoying the season’s traditions.
At BALCO, Diwali shone a light on women-led enterprises. Under Project Unnati Mahasangha, community brands such as Chhattisa, Dekoratti, Kosakari and Cleanla showcased their products to employees and visitors. From food products and silk apparel to home décor and household essentials, the display highlighted the growing range of products emerging from local women-led enterprises. The focus on creativity continued through a Sustainable Rangoli Making Competition, where participants transformed eco-friendly materials into rangolis. Dhanteras celebrations and a Diwali feast at the plant rounded off the season.
While the celebrations unfolded differently across locations, they reflected something timeless, people finding their own ways to celebrate, create, share and look ahead. From traditional crafts and local enterprise to family customs and workplace traditions, these occasions remain deeply rooted in the regions where VAML operates. Across its operations, the company celebrates festivals as a reflection of the diverse cultures and traditions that define community life, preserving their relevance for future generations while honouring their enduring place in the present.
