Bhubaneswar: Actor-turned-politician Hema Malini visited Shree Jagannath Temple in Odisha’s Puri town amid celebration of Holi on Saturday.
“… Feeling blessed to have celebrated Holi at Jagannath Puri. I thank Odisha government, the people, Ratikant Mohapatra and Samit Patra for the arrangements…,” she said in her interaction with the media.
On Friday, the BJP MP from Mathura had performed at Brindavan Mahotsav, organised by Odia Language, Literature, and Culture Department and Brindavan Gurukul, at Rabindra Mandap in Bhubaneswar.
Hema Malini began her performance with “Pushpanjali,” followed by devotional presentations such as “Ganesh Aradhana” and “Lakshmi Stuti.” She then enchanted the audience with a mesmerising dance based on the bhajan “Aaji Bada Danda Bhida Bhari, Gundicha Jatra Kari”. Another major attraction was her rendition of Jayadeva’s Gita Govinda.
She was accompanied by dancers from Natya Vihar Kala Kendra, while disciples of Brindavan Gurukul showcased their musical talents on the flute and tabla.
Expressing her gratitude, Hema Malini said, “Odisha is a land of rich art, culture and heritage. Performing in the sacred land of Lord Jagannath brings me immense joy. Odisha’s music, dance, cuisine, attire, literature and traditions are truly unique.”
The event was attended by eminent musician Pt Hariprasad Chaurasia, renowned dancers Aruna Mohanty and Ratikant Mohapatra and Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja.
Puri MP Shri Sambit Patra, who was also present on the occasion, extended his appreciation to Hema Malini for her performance.
The event concluded with a vibrant Holi celebration. Hema Malini thanked the people of Odisha for their warm hospitality, making the festival a memorable one.