Konark: The third evening of the 35th Konark Festival 2024 unfolded with captivating classical dance performances, featuring Odissi and Mohiniyattam.
The awe-inspiring 13th century Sun Temple formed the perfect backdrop for this grand celebration of India’s artistic heritage.
The evening commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Puri Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb in the presence of Hon’ble Minister of Law, Excise and Works Shri Prithviraj Harichandan, Noted Mardala Guru Dhaneswar Swain and other honourable guests of the evening.
The first act featured Guru Arnab Bandopadhyay and his group from Darpani, Kolkata, who delivered a spellbinding Odissi performance. They opened with Srita Kamala Kucha Mandala, an Ashtapadi from legendary poet Jayadeva’s Geeta Govinda, highlighting the divine beauty of Lord Vishnu. Both the dance recitals are famous Odissi choreography of renowned choreographer Padmabibhushan Guru Shri Kelucharan Mohapatra. This was followed by the pure dance piece Hamsadhwani Pallavi, showcasing intricate rhythms and lyrical movements. The recital culminated with Krishna Katha, narrating the divine story of Lord Krishna, embodying his roles as saviour, creator, and guide. This original piece is a choreography of Guru Arnab Bandopadhyay. The performances featured music by Pt. Bhubaneswar Mishra and Himanshu Shekhar Swain, enthralling the audience with their artistic mastery.
The second segment showcased Guru Dr. Sunanda Nair and her group from the USA, performing Mohiniyattam with unparalleled grace. The recital began with GrapathyTalam, an ode to Lord Ganesh, blending intricate rhythm and devotional fervour. The group then performed Kartiyayani Devi, a hymn lauding the goddess of prosperity and desires, and concluded with Madhurashtakam, a poetic tribute to Lord Krishna’s divine sweetness. The emotive choreography by Guru Dr. Sunanda Nair captured the ethereal beauty and depth of Mohiniyattam, leaving the audience spellbound.
Chandrabhaga Beach continued to be the hub of creative expression as the 14th International Sand Art Festival showcased artistic masterpieces from both national and international artists. These creations, centred around themes of Buddhist Heritage of Odisha and Tourism & Peace added vibrancy to the festival.
Notable dignitaries of the evening included Biswajit Routray, Additional Director, Tourism and Dr. Lalatendu Sahoo, General Manager, OTDC Ltd. including officials of Department of Tourism and Odisha Tourism Development Corporation were also present.
