Bhubaneswar: Gandharva Kala Parishad, one of Odisha’s premier institutions in the performing and visual arts, is all set to roll out the red carpet for its Golden Jubilee celebrations.
The much-anticipated Dr Dibakar Mishra Gandharva Kala Festival 2025 will be held on June 21 and 22 at Rabindra Mandap from 6.30 pm onwards, promising a feast for the senses.
Founded in 1974 by the visionary Dr Dibakar Mishra, the institution has grown from strength to strength, now boasting 30 branches across Odisha. It continues to be a cradle of creativity, nurturing talents in Odissi dance, music, acting, literature, and fine arts.
Currently steered by Guru Smt Gayatri Mishra, daughter of the founder, the Parishad has left an indelible mark on the cultural map of India.
This year’s festival is particularly special, as the Parishad not only celebrates 50 glorious years but also honours four stalwarts with Lifetime Achievement Awards for their towering contributions to their respective fields.
They are Padma Shri Shilpiguru Dr Chaturbhuj Meher for Visual Art, Dr Soubhagya Kumar Mishra for Literature, Padma Shri Guru Durga Charan Ranbir for Odissi Dance and Sabyasachi Mohapatra for Film Direction.
The two-day cultural bonanza is packed to the brim with performances by some of the finest artistes in the field.
On the opening evening, audiences will be treated to solo Odissi recitals by Dr Pompi Paul and Smt Pranati Mohanty, a duet by Dr Noor Raza and Tithibhadra Mohapatra, group presentations by Nritya Naivedya and the Gandharva Kala Parishad dancers.
The curtain will fall in style on the second evening with a soul-stirring solo Odissi vocal recital by Guru Smt Sangita Panda, Odissi dance solos by Guru Smt Gayatri Mishra and Guru Gourishankar Dash and a captivating duet by Dr Anisha Anukampa and Ms Prachi Mishra.
Over the years, students of Gandharva Kala Parishad have not only made their mark as Doordarshan and AIR artistes, but also brought home laurels from reputed festivals both within and beyond Odisha.
With a blend of legacy and innovation, this year’s festival promises to be a curtain-raiser for the next chapter in Gandharva Kala Parishad’s journey—a journey steeped in dedication, discipline, and a deep love for the arts.
