Bhubaneswar, Jan 31: The 16^th Dhauli-Kalinga Mahotsav organised by by Orissa Dance Academy and Odisha Tourism in association of Art Vision, Bhubaneswar will begin from February 7 at Dhauli.

The festival started in the year 2003 as two independent festivals which were brought under one umbrella in 2011 and came to be known as Dhauli Kalinga Mahotsav. Art Vision, Bhubaneswar is associated in selection and co-ordination of martial arts in Kalinga Component.

During the three day festival, the Peace Pagoda transforms itself under the star lit skies and artistic brilliance of the performers leaving the audience with memories to savour for days to come.

Dhauli Mahotsav is intended to permeate the gospel of peace through the concerts of classical & folk dances and music of India by synthesizing the quintessence of religions and faiths. While Kalinga Mahotsav sends the message of peace through the martial arts being represented from across the country and abroad.

Another significant objective is to create awareness among the youth, particularly the students about our cultural heritage and tradition and to inculcate the interest and involvement with our glorious art and culture by showcasing the rich tapestry of our performing arts and interactions with artistes.

BUDDHA SAMMAN :

This coveted award has been instituted by ODA since last 10 years in order to remember the teachings of Gautam Buddha and preach the same through this festival. Every year an eminent art personality from the field of creative and performing art, is being conferred on with this Samman which carries a citation, anga bastra and cash award of Rs. 1,00,000/-. This award is being partly sponsored by Ruchi Pratibha Foundation, Cuttack since last 2008. This year Mayadhar Raut, a renowned Odissi Guru will receive this award.

GURU GANGADHAR PRADHAN SMRUTI SAMMAN :

ODA has instituted  another award in the memory of its  founder Guru Shri Gangadhar Pradhan as “GURU GANGADHAR SMRUTI SAMMAN” since 2016.

This year the award goes to four eminent personality of different field. They are Guru Ghanashyam Panda, Renowned Odissi Vocalist, Smt. Aloka Kanungo, Eminent Odissi Danseuse; Dr. Devi Mishra, Promoter of Odissi dance in USA;  Dr. Niranjan Tripathy & Dr. Swati Tripathy, Promoter of Odissi dance in USA;  & Shri Jaydev Das, Noted Light Designer. This prestigious award carries a citation, anga bastra and cash award of Rs. 25,000/- to each awardees.