Bhubaneswar: The enchanting rhythm and grace of Odisha’s classical Odissi dance and its vibrant folk traditions took center stage at the Second Pravasi Nrutya Sangam, held today at the Utkal Rangamanch auditorium of the Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra Odissi Research Centre.
Organized by the Odisha Paribar Directorate in collaboration with the U.S.-based Nrutyasadhana and supported by the Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra Odissi Research Centre, the event celebrated the cultural richness of Odisha and fostered international exchange.
The highlight of the event was the captivating group Odissi performances by artists from Nrutyasadhana. Expressing gratitude to the Odisha government and the Department of Odia Language, Literature, and Culture, the dancers acknowledged the significance of performing in the land of Odissi’s origin. They pledged to promote the dance form and Jagannath culture on a global scale.
Shri Bijay Ketan Upadhyay, Director of Odisha Paribar and the Department of Culture, graced the event as the chief guest. Other notable attendees included celebrated Odissi dancer Guru Gajendra Kumar Panda, renowned performer Smt. Sujata Mohapatra, and Nrutyasadhana founders Tapasi Rath and Suchilagna Panigrahi.
The program featured an array of performances that left the audience spellbound. Tapasi Rath and Suchilagna Panigrahi delivered mesmerizing solo Odissi recitals, while Jyotirani Nayak and Suryakanta Pradhan’s duet captivated the audience with its elegance and precision.
Adding to the celebration, folk dance troupes brought the vibrant spirit of Odisha to life with Chhau by Mayur Art Centre, Sambalpuri by Dholamahuri Kalaparishad, Balangir, and Dhap by Brundavan Sanskrutik Anusthan, Kesinga, Kalahandi.
The Pravasi Nrutya Sangam served as a testament to the enduring appeal and global relevance of Odisha’s artistic traditions. By blending classical and folk art forms, the event reaffirmed the state’s cultural identity while fostering international camaraderie.