Bhubaneswar: The second evening of the 20th Guru Debaprasad Award Festival 2026, organized by Tridhara in association with the Department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture, Government of Odisha, unfolded as a captivating celebration of India’s rich performing-arts heritage.
The evening brought together the vibrant grace of Kuchipudi and the timeless allure of ghazals, featuring an enthralling solo recital by Shri Guru Raju, an eminent young Kuchipudi artiste, followed by “Shaam-e-Ghazal,” a soulful musical presentation by the celebrated ghazal maestro Pt. Chandan Dass.
The evening was graced by Shri Bibhu Prasad Tarai, Hon’ble MP, Jagatsinghpur; Shri Ashok Kumar Tripathy, Former Member, Board of Revenue, Govt. of Odisha;Shri Suresh Chandra Panda, President, Tridhara; Shri Simanchal Panda, Working President, Tridhara and Guru Dr. Gajendra Kumar Panda, Director, Tridhara.
The first presentation of the evening celebrated the splendour of Kuchipudi through a solo performance by Shri Guru Raju.
Distinguished by its fluid movements, expressive abhinaya and intricate rhythmic patterns, the classical dance form brought alive the depth of India’s artistic traditions, weaving together grace, storytelling and rhythm in a compelling stage presentation.
The musical segment, “Shaam-e-Ghazal,” transported the audience into the evocative world of ghazals.
Presented by Pt. Chandan Dass, the recital resonated with lyrical poetry, soulful melodies and heartfelt expression, offering an intimate musical journey through a genre cherished for its emotional depth and timeless appeal.
The festival continues to provide a distinguished platform for India’s diverse classical and contemporary performing arts, fostering cultural appreciation and bringing artistes and audiences together.
Such initiatives further enrich Odisha’s cultural landscape and strengthen the State’s identity as a destination celebrated not only for its natural splendour and historical heritage, but also for its vibrant artistic traditions.
The programme was coordinated by Guru Dr. Gajendra Kumar Panda, Smt. Rina Panda, Shri Ashutosh Panda and Shri Prabhutosh Panda. The programme was anchored by Dr. Mrutunjaya Rath.
Photo courtesy: Tridhara
