Rajarani, Mukteswar & International Odissi Dance Festival To Begin In Bhubaneswar Tomorrow

Bhubaneswar: Five-day Rajarani Music Festival, Mukteswar Odissi Dance Festival and International Odissi Dance Festival, showcasing classical dance and music performances, will kick start in Bhubaneswar from January 7.

International Odissi Dance Festival is being organised at Rabindra Mandap, Rajarani Music Festival on the premises of Rajarani Temple and Mukteswar Odissi Dance Festival on Mukteswar Temple’s premises here by Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department.

This year’s International Odissi Dance Festival will feature renowned Odissi dancers and gurus, including Kumkum Mohanty, Ileana Citaristi, Durga Charan Ranbir, Jhelum Paranjape and Sharon Lowen. A photo exhibition highlighting the history and significance of the International Odissi Dance Festival will also be part of the celebrations. The Mukteswar Odissi Dance Festival will include solo, duet and group performances by eminent Odissi dancers, while the Rajarani Music Festival will feature Hindustani, Carnatic and Odissi music recitals.

“Classical dance and music are integral to our cultural identity and heritage. The Rajarani Music Festival, Mukteswar Odissi Dance Festival and International Odissi Dance Festival are being organized to showcase our rich cultural legacy. These festivals will coincide with the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrations in the city, providing an opportunity for guests from across the country and abroad to experience the grandeur of our classical art forms,” said Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj.

He emphasised that such events play a vital role in promoting Odisha’s cultural and artistic traditions on an international level. “Through these festivals, we aim to celebrate our culture and classical art forms,” he added.