Reshmi Yadav, OP
Bhubaneswar: The 48th edition of Barsha Festival 2025, a three-day event organised by Chinta O Chetana, commenced Monday evening at Rabindra Mandap with a vibrant showcase of Odisha’s classical and folk traditions.
The inaugural evening began with a dance performance by Auroaditya Dance Academy on ‘Megha Barasila Mayura Nachila’. This was followed by a Mangala Charan by celebrated Odissi exponent Sujata Mohapatra, who set the tone with a soulful invocation.
The ceremonial lamp was lit by several dignitaries, including Orissa POST and Dhartiri Editor Tathagata Satpathy, DIG Bharat Bhushan Sethi, Tabla maestro Pandit Ramdas Palsule, spiritual leader Ram Narayan Das, musician Laxmikant Palit, Sitarist Subrata De, along with Chinta O Chetana National Secretary General Surendra Das and President Sahadev Sahoo.
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Welcoming the dignitaries, Surendra Das underscored the importance of environmental responsibility in cultural celebrations. “We should plant more and more trees. Planting alone is not enough; nurturing them is what truly matters. Even our stage decoration this year is designed with plants to spread this message,” he said.
Satpathy, lauding the efforts of the organisers, said, “It is heartening to see such enthusiasm for culture, especially when people have gathered in large numbers despite the inclement weather. Festivals like these reflect the spirit of our community.”
Sharing his admiration for state’s rich cultural heritage, DIG Bharat Bhushan Sethi remarked, “Though I am not an Odia speaker, I deeply admire the language and culture of this state. Odisha has such a rich heritage, and programmes like this help preserve it.”
Chinta O Chetana Barsha Award were presented to Pandit Ramdas Palsule, Subrata De and Sujata Mahapatra. Gurukeerti Odissi Dance Group and Auroditya dance troupe were also felicitated on the occasion.
Orissa POST and Dharitri are the print media partners for the event.
