Shyamhari Chakra
Braving the ongoing pandemic that has paralysed the tourism industry across the globe, the Department of Tourism is gearing up to host its famed annual Konark Festival during December 1 to 5.
The five-day internationally known event, in its 30th edition this year, is being staged at the specially designed open-air theatre at the world heritage site of Konark with the spectacular Sun temple forming its befitting backdrop.
The decision of the Government has brought much relief to the various stake-holders of tourism and hospitality sectors apart from cheers for the artistes and connoisseurs who were unsure of the festival’s happening this year.
Tourism Secretary Vishal Kumar Dev took the much needed initiative to host the festival in order to revitalise the Covid affected ailing hospitality sector in Odisha Tourism’s Golden Triangle circuit, sources in the Department said.
Dev has also ensured that the annual International Sand Art Festival happen at Konark’s Chandrabhaga beach coinciding with the five-day festival.
The inaugural evening of Konark Festival on December 1 will witness Odissi dance by Odisha Dance Academy from Bhubaneswar led by its director Aruna Mohanty followed by Bharatnatyam presentation by Sheela Unnikrishnan & Group from Chennai.
While the second evening will feature Manipuri dance by Kolkata based Suman Sarawgi & Group followed by group Odissi presentation by Bengaluru-based Sanjali Centre of Odissi led by Sharmila Mukherjee; the third evening will have another Bengaluru-based Odissi group presentation by Nrityantar Academy of Madhulita Mohapatra followed by Kuchipudi by Vasanthalakshmi Narasmimhachari & Group from Chennai.
The fourth evening of the event will have Kathak and Odissi by Kolkata-based Vikram Iyenger & Group and Rudrakshya Foundation of Bichitrananda Swain from Bhubaneswar.
The concluding evening on December 5 will showcase Odissi by state-owned Odissi Research Centre, Bhubaneswar followed by Kathak by Aditi Mangal Das & troupe of Drishtikona Dance Company from New Delhi.
