Post News Network
Bhubaneswar, August 7: The famous Dhauli stupa at the outskirts of the city became more attractive as history in its myriad hues came alive on its premises with the Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Friday evening, inaugurating the much-awaited light and sound show amid fanfare.
A number of persons were present during the inaugural session, which also saw the first public screening of the light and sound show. State tourism and culture minister, Ashok Chandra Panda, Bhubaneswar Lok Sabha MP, Prasanna Patasani, secretary, Dhauli Development Committee, S S Rath, etc. were present during the session.
The light and sound show told the story of the great Ashoka and the Maurya dynasty and how the Kalinga war changed the heart of the emperor, who in turn erected the shanti stupa at the site. During the show the whole stupa was illuminated by colourful lights and the whole story was displayed on the stupa surface, with the aid of laser lights and 3D mapping techniques. Rich, vibrant colours flashing on the white surface of the stupa complimented the storyline and the edifice looked more inviting during the show.
Later, while speaking to the reporters, the Chief Minister said, “I am delighted to take part in the event. It will not only be a show to entertain the people, but also to help the people know the history of the site.”
Patasani said, “Earlier we have witnessed light and sound work in different places outside the state like in Andaman and Golconda, but now we are lucky that similar show would be displayed at the Dhauli. Through the show, the visitors can now know about the rich history behind this famous stupa.”
Friday’s first show opened with the Hindi version, with the voice-over given by actor Om Puri. The same show has also been made in Oriya and English. The tourism department has planned to hold two shows a day, except on Mondays. The price of the show ticket is `25 per head.
