RESHMI YADAV, OP
Bhubaneswar: The Barsha Festival 2025, organised by the cultural organisation Chinta O Chetana, concluded here at Rabindra Mandap, Wednesday. The three-day event celebrated Odisha’s rich heritage through music, dance, and honours to distinguished artistes.
The final evening began with an evocative Odissi recital by noted dancer Jyoti Rout, who performed Assi Ghana Kala Hoii La Re. This was followed by the ceremonial lamp-lighting by dignitaries, including Kadambini editor Itirani Samanta, who graced the event as chief guest. Other distinguished guests were musician Laxmikant Palit, senior advocate of the Supreme Court Surjyanarayan Das, SHABARI secretary Sanghamitra Parida, Chinta O Chetana president Sahadev Sahoo, general secretary Surendra Das, and renowned presenter Murtunjay Rath.
The Chinta O Chetana National Awards 2024 were presented to Indian classical vocalist Koushik Bhattacharjee (Music – Vocal) and Odissi exponent Jyoti Rout (Dance), while the Barsha Awards 2024 were conferred upon Asif Khan (Tabla), Kamalaksha Mukherjee (Harmonium), Shuvam Ghosh (Bharatanatyam), and Vidushi Sangita Chati (Kathak and Bharatanatyam). Thanking everyone on the occasion, Surendra Das said, “Our only mission is to preserve the identity, culture, and heritage of Odisha in the best possible way. We are striving to scale up this festival with more workshops and cultural programmes in the coming years.”
Chief guest Samanta praised the initiative, saying,“I am delighted to be part of this festival. Surendraji has single-handedly carried forward this cultural endeavour, which is playing a vital role in preserving the culture and heritage of Odisha.” The evening concluded with a vibrant cultural show featuring classical and folk performances. OrissaPOST and Dharitri were the print media partners for the event.