Post News Network
Bhubaneswar, June 4: Dancers from various parts of the country came together at the Bhanjakala Mandap in the city Thursday for the 9th Naveen Kalakar, a national youth Odissi dancers’ meet organised by the National Culture Mission.
The national-level dance festival, which was inaugurated Thursday, aims to promote the traditional art form.
Several people are expected to witness the live performance of the dance form at the festival that is scheduled to continue for the next four days.
“We tried our best to reach out to Odissi dancers in different parts of the country. We even tried to invite artists through social networking sites and finally got in touch with many artistes who are eager to perform the classical dance in the state capital. This is, however, not a competition. Rather, it is just a platform to celebrate the art form,” said Jagbandhu Jena, the coordinator of the festival.
“This event is an important platform for many artistes who are keen to perform the classical dance, which is an integral part of our culture. I hope that in the days to come we will get to see many marvellous performances,” said Gayatri Chandra, a teacher of Ddissi dance.
A number of people from the city gathered at the venue to see the dance performances. “Odissi is a great form of art. It potentially bridges the gap between god and devotee. I am fascinated by the art. The expressions portrayed in this dance are invaluable,” said Sasthi Pattnaik, a social worker from the city.
“Odissi is a part of our vibrant Oriya culture. We were brought up seeing the traditional performing art. We feel we are a part of the art. I came here to take part in the event and was delighted by the amazing performances,” said Sangita Mohanty, a city-based architect.
