Odisha prepares for global creativity celebrating twenty-five regional years
Bhubaneswar gears up to host renowned creators during the 7th International Dhauli Art Festival on March 28 and 29, 2026. Dhauli College of Art and Crafts organizes this vibrant two-day cultural gathering to mark its Silver Jubilee celebration, blending global perspectives with local Odia traditions. Situated near the historic Dhauli Shanti Stupa, where Emperor Ashoka famously embraced peace after the Kalinga War, this institution has quietly nurtured regional artistry for twenty-five consecutive years.
Two Days of Creative Synergy
Weekend activities commence Saturday morning with a unique "Jugal Bandi" that pairs traditional painters with contemporary artists for collaborative expression. Principal Dr. Panchanan Samal and Secretary Rabisankar Das will officially open the central Artist Camp shortly after the initial sessions. This continuous collaborative camp runs from 9:00 AM on Saturday until 2:00 PM on Sunday. Attendees will also engage in intellectual discourse, particularly during an afternoon panel featuring ex-students exploring how creative works directly affect human emotion and psychology.
Empowering Young Odia Talents
Sunday programming shifts focus squarely toward younger generations. Organisers have scheduled a dedicated Spot Painting competition for children, immediately followed by an exhibition displaying their vibrant creations. Integrating these youth-focused events ensures that rich Odisha crafting techniques gracefully transfer to emerging local talents. Proceedings wrap up Sunday evening with a formal valedictory function and felicitation ceremony, honouring individuals who actively elevate the state's vibrant cultural scene.