Konark, Dec 4, 2025: The fourth evening of the 36th Konark Festival unfolded with a mesmerizing celebration of India’s classical dance heritage, officials said on Thursday.

Organised by the Department of Tourism, Government of Odisha, in collaboration with Sangeet Natak Akademi and Odisha Tourism Development Corporation, the event was staged against the majestic backdrop of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sun Temple of Konark.

Manipuri Elegance

The evening began with a soulful presentation of Manipuri dance by the artists of Bimbavati Devi’s Manipuri Dance Theatre, Kolkata. Bimbavati Devi, a distinguished exponent with decades of experience, brought forth Lilakamla, a composition inspired by the traditional Gosthali dance, originally created by legendary musician Guru Bipin Singh.

The performance depicted the heroic episodes from the life of Lord Krishna, seamlessly blending dance, rhythm, and music rooted in the Vaishnava traditions of Manipur. The choreography, designed by Bimbavati Devi, offered an immersive experience for the audience.

Odissi Grace

In the second segment, the stage was adorned with the grace and precision of Odissi dance, presented by Guru Bharat Charangir and the artistes of Bharati Dance Temple, Bhubaneswar. Their first presentation, Charukeshi Pallavi, showcased the lyrical beauty of the raga through refined movements and rhythmic complexity.

The choreography by Guru Bharat Charangir, musical composition by Guru Dr. Vijay Kumar Jena, and rhythmic arrangements by Guru Dhaneswar Swain and Guru Ajay Kumar Chowdhury brought the composition to life.

Their second presentation, Gajanan, narrated the divine saga of Lord Ganesha, from Indra’s pride and the curse of Sage Durvasa to Ganesha’s beheading and rebirth with the head of a young elephant. The performance, choreographed by Guru Bharat Charangir with music by Guru Dr. Vijay Kumar Jena and rhythm compositions by Guru Dhaneswar Swain and Guru Ajay Kumar Chowdhury, received warm admiration from the audience.

Dignitaries and Parallel Festivities

Odisha’s Minister of Law, Works and Excise, Prithiraj Harichandan graced the occasion and felicitated the performing teams. The chief guests for the evening also included Anu Garg, Development Commissioner and Additional Chief Secretary, Government of Odisha; Balwant Singh, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Tourism Department; and Demarai Phankwal, General Manager, East Coast Railway.

Meanwhile, at Chandrabhaga Beach, the 15th International Sand Art Festival continued to attract visitors. The theme for the day was Unique India for male artists and Odisha Tourism for female artists. Sand sculptors from across the country and abroad showcased their talent through breathtaking artistry.

Looking Ahead

The grand festival will conclude tomorrow with Odissi by Guru Aarti Kar and Kathak by Sanjukta Sinha, promising a grand finale to Odisha’s cultural extravaganza.