Bhubaneswar: India’s rich classical music traditions, particularly the heritage of Odishi Raaga Gayan, was celebrated at the 14th Odishi Raaga Mahotsav and Award Ceremony 2026 which concluded on Saturday.
The festival, organised by Guru Gopal Panda Odishi Academy, was held at Utkala Rangamancha, Guru Kelu Charan Mohapatra Odissi Research Centre (GKCMORC) on November 6 and 7, bringing together eminent classical vocalists, eminent artists, music institutions and music enthusiasts on a common platform to celebrate, preserve and promote the traditional art of Odishi classical music.
The second day of the festival began with the Odishi Gayan Samavesha, which provided a platform for talented vocalists and institutions from across Odisha to showcase their artistic excellence and celebrate the rich tradition of Odishi Raaga Gayan. The morning session featured performances by Swarabhisek, Bhubaneswar (Guru Smt. Harapriya Pati); Guru Ramahari Das Gurukul, Bhubaneswar (Guru Himansu Sekhar Swain); SP Omprakash Panda (Solo Odishi Gayan); and GGPO Academy, Bhubaneswar (Smt. Sangita Panda).
The evening session featured the Award ceremony and classical trio performances, presenting a confluence of Carnatic, Hindustani and Odissi classical vocal traditions.
Guru Singhari Samman 2026 was conferred upon Smt. Ileana Citaristi (Padma Shri), an eminent Odissi danseuse and renowned choreographer, in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the promotion and propagation of Odissi dance at national and international levels.
Bhagawati Smruti Samman 2026 was bestowed upon Dr Snehaprabha Samantray, a renowned Odissi dance exponent, acknowledging her valuable contribution and dedication to the rich tradition of Odissi dance.
Guru Gopal Panda Yuba Prativa Samman 2026 was conferred upon Dr Himansu Sekhar Swain, an accomplished Odissi vocalist, in recognition of his artistic excellence and contribution to the enrichment of Odissi vocal music.
The Carnatic segment featured internationally acclaimed vocalist sisters Anahita and Apoorva Ravichandran, who enthralled the audience with their musical synchrony and soulful presentation of Raga Revati.
The Hindustani classical segment featured Priyanshu Ghosh and Lovely Sharma, who presented Raga Bairagi Bhairav.
The Odissi classical segment featured Sangita Panda and Shruti Mishra, a mother-daughter duo who presented Raga Khanda Bangalashree.