Paradip celebrates national drama excellence at 23rd CANFEST inauguration.
Paradip Port Authority Chairman P.L. Haranadh officially opened the 23rd National Theatre Festival, CANFEST-2026, on Tuesday at the Jayadev Sadan.Addressing a packed auditorium, Haranadh praised the organizing body, CANMASS, for its relentless dedication to preserving live performance art. He emphasised that Odisha remains a bastion of diverse cultural expressions, sustained by the grit of local artists. In a significant announcement for residents, the Chairman confirmed that a modern multiplex will soon be established within the Paradip township to further boost entertainment infrastructure.
Awards and Cultural Recognition
Distinguished guests including Paradip Municipality Chairman Basant Biswal and renowned actor Samresh Routray graced the stage. Routray received the prestigious Rang Prativa award for his contributions to cinema and stage, while young director Nalini Nihar Nayak was honored with the Manoj Pradhan Smruti Samman.
Opening Night: Prakash Haazir Ho
Shadow Theatre from Bhopal delivered the inaugural performance with "Prakash Haazir Ho," directed by Manoj Nair. Based on a story by the legendary Rajasthani writer Vijaydan Detha, the play weaves a dual narrative. One track follows a king’s mystical quest to physically capture light, while the other depicts a modern theatre troupe’s frantic search for a missing actor named Prakash.
Symbolism and Local Impact
Metaphorical parallels between the king’s search for enlightenment and the troupe’s wait for their colleague captivated the audience for over 90 minutes. This festival holds deep significance for Jagatsinghpur district, as Paradip has evolved from a purely industrial hub into a vibrant center for the Odia theatre movement, bridging the gap between traditional folk narratives and contemporary stagecraft.
Secretary Sriman Narayan Mishra managed the proceedings, which concluded with a vote of thanks from Vice President Dr. Santosh Samal.
