Dhauli-Kalinga Mahotsav 2025: The three-day 21st Dhauli-Kalinga Mahotsav concluded on a grand note at Shanti Vihar, at the foothills of Dhauli, with the Shanti Stupa forming a picturesque backdrop. The festival, known for celebrating India’s rich classical dance heritage, captivated the audience with a spectacular fusion of Odissi, Kathak, Bharatnatyam, and Mohiniyattam performances.
The concluding evening witnessed a remarkable blend of artistry and tradition, beginning with a customary lamp-lighting ceremony. Eminent personalities such as renowned Odissi dancer and former Vice-Chancellor of Sambalpur University, Dr. (Prof) Priyambada Mohanty Hejmadi, dance critic Leela Venkataraman, Mardala exponent Guru Dhaneswar Swain, and social worker Sumitra Jena graced the occasion.
The highlight of the evening was a grand dance presentation featuring a fusion of Odissi, Mohiniyattam, Bharatnatyam, and Kathak, performed by artistes from prestigious institutions, including Orissa Dance Academy, International Academy of Mohiniyattam (Delhi), Pavitra Art Visual Institute (Mumbai), and Khanak Institute of Performing Arts (Delhi). The performance commenced with Ganesh Vandana, followed by Krishna Sharanam Namaha, depicting the life of Lord Krishna—from His birth to the Mahabharata war—through an exquisite confluence of classical dance forms.
The audience remained spellbound as the dancers vividly brought to life key episodes from Krishna’s life, such as His birth, playful childhood pranks, Vishwaroop Darshan, Kaliya Daman, and the Mahabharata war. The seamless coordination and flawless execution earned thunderous applause, particularly for the portrayal of the nine avatars of Vishnu.
The production was conceptualized and choreographed by Padma Shri Dr. Aruna Mohanty, with co-choreography by Janardan Raj Urs (contemporary, martial art, and folk), Jayaprabha Menon (Mohiniyattam), Pabitra Bhat (Bharatanatyam), and Manisa Nayak (Kathak). The fusion performance was lauded as a “masterclass” in creativity and synchronization.
The final act of the evening featured an enthralling Mayurbhanj Chhau performance by the artistes of Mayur Art Centre, Bhubaneswar. Their presentation of Sumbha-Nisumbha Badha enthralled the audience with its high-energy movements and dramatic storytelling. Lighting designer Debiprasad Mishra played a crucial role in enhancing the visual appeal and setting the perfect stage ambiance for the performances. The event was anchored by Dr. Srinibas Ghatuari and Dr. Nazia Alam.
The Dhauli-Kalinga Mahotsav once again proved to be a grand celebration of India’s classical and folk traditions, leaving the audience with unforgettable memories of artistic excellence.
