Konark, Dec 2: Day two of the 36th Konark Festival 2025 offered a captivating celebration of classical Indian dance, beginning with Kuchipudi and followed by Odissi.
The evening’s performances began with Guru Vyjayanthi Kashi and her troupe from the Shambhavi School of Dance, Bengaluru, presenting the Kuchipudi production Dharmāyana. Their presentation explored the various avatars of Lord Vishnu, each representing eternal principles of Dharma and the cosmic balance that sustains the universe. The group’s expressive choreography and graceful movements set a vibrant tone for the night.
In the second half of the programme, the audience was treated to a series of enchanting Odissi performances by Guru Sharmila Biswas and her ensemble from the Odissi Vision & Movement Centre, Kolkata. They presented Mahalakshmi Stotram, a visually rich interpretation inspired by Patachitra art, ancient sculptures, and traditional shadow puppetry, bringing to life the imagery of the goddess holding the Shanka, Chakra, Gada, and Padma. This was followed by Abartan–Bibartan, which explored the natural rhythms inherent in everyday human actions, transforming ordinary movements into expressive dance sequences. The final piece, Shrishti–Tatva, delved into the evolution of life, drawing from the Puranas and Jayadeva’s portrayal of the Dashavatar to reflect the deeper essence of creation.
The diverse and compelling performances highlighted the finesse and grandeur of India’s classical dance traditions, leaving a profound impression on the audience. The presence of art aficionados, cultural enthusiasts, and tourists reinforced the enduring appeal of the Konark Festival and its role in showcasing Odisha’s rich cultural heritage.
Earlier in the day, artistic expression continued at the 15th International Sand Art Festival, where sculptors crafted impressive sand artworks. Male artists worked on the theme “Eco-Tourism & Wildlife,” while female artists created pieces on “Environment & Climate Change,” adding yet another layer of creativity to the vibrant cultural atmosphere.
