Bhubaneswar: The 40th Sradhanjali Samaroh-2026, a tribute to the legendary Odissi maestro Guru Dr. Debaprasad Das’s 40th death anniversary, commenced with great reverence and artistic fervour at Rabindra Mandap, Bhubaneswar on Wednesday.
Organised by Tridhara with the support of the Department of Odia Language, Literature & Culture, Government of Odisha, the two-day celebration also marks the beginning of the National Dance & Music Festival-2026, held under the national presence of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
The festival aims to preserve, promote and celebrate India’s classical and folk performing arts while inspiring younger generations to carry forward the invaluable legacy of legendary guru Dr. Debaprasad Das.
The day began with a solemn garlanding ceremony and Pushpanjali at the statue of the maestro at Utkal Sangeet Mahavidyalaya, where eminent gurus, distinguished guests, disciples and admirers paid floral tributes to the legendary Odissi exponent, remembering his unparalleled contribution to Indian classical dance and the enrichment of the Debaprasad style of Odissi.
The inaugural session at Rabindra Mandap witnessed enthusiastic participation from leading dance institutions representing Odisha and neighbouring states.
The performances reflected the richness, diversity and continuity of India’s classical dance heritage while paying homage to the timeless legacy of the legendary guru. Throughout the day, audiences enjoyed captivating presentations by renowned dance institutions including Tridhara, Shree Jagannath Odissi Kalakendra (Paralakhemundi), Shreekhetra Odissi Nrutyabhumi (West Bengal), Nrutyayana (Khordha), Natraj Kala Mandir (Phulbani), Indian Dance Academy (Bhubaneswar), Natya Sastra (Bhubaneswar), Mirambika Fine Arts (Chandabali), Utkalika Sangeet Academy (Nirakarpur), Nrutyadhwaja Odissi Academy (Nirakarpur), Utkalika Kala Niketan (Berhampur), Maa Thakurani Nrutyanusthan (Sunapur), Maa Tarini Nrutya Sikhya Kendra (Ghatagaon), Trinetra Kala Kunja (Choudwar), Swara Jhankar (Balangir), Hare Krishna Dance Academy (Keonjhar), Gelha Maa Kalaniketan (Boudh) and Niladri Rhythms (Ganjam).
The festival also showcased Odisha’s vibrant folk traditions through colourful performances by Maa Samaleswari Kala Bikash Kendra (Ranapa), Ranga Shala, Puri (Sahi Jata) and Shree Jagannath Odissi Kala Kendra, Paralakhemundi (Mahari & Palli Nrutya), highlighting the State’s rich and living cultural heritage.
The afternoon session featured another series of impressive performances by eminent dance institutions and guest artistes, receiving an overwhelming response from art lovers, students, cultural enthusiasts and members of the public.
The celebrations will come to an end on July 16 with performances by several distinguished dance institutions from across the country, alongside presentations of Odisha’s traditional folk arts. The evening will culminate in the National Dance & Music Festival-2026.
Photo courtesy: Tridhara
