23rd Konark Dance and Music Festival February 19 - 21, 2008 Konark, Orissa February 3, 2008 Shining silver moonlight gliding over smooth waters of the Chandrabhaga and bright golden rays of the sun glittering over the Surya Mandir is what Konark brings to mind. But the definition seems not to be complete unless one includes mention of the enchanting sound of musical instruments as well as ghunghroos. Yes, Konark becomes alive with the most awaited Konark Dance and Music Festival every year. This prestigious festival is embracing its 23rd celebration this year and through its previous success, one can be very sure of this year's charm as well. Set to the background of a beautiful temple-like atmosphere, the festival's open air stage seems to be like a sublime dream for artists to present their talents and art work. Further, surrounded by the lush green trees, clean sand and eye catching beautiful dance sculptures on the stage wall is what makes the festival venue magical. In the month of February, the climate is most pleasant in Orissa. The three day festival is to start from the 19th Feb and would dazzle with dance as well as music presentations by various artists. Renowned Odissi maestro, Guru Gangadhar Pradhan is the director of the festival, and is well appreciated for hosting festivals that are well organized and managed. The 23rd Konark Dance and Music Festival 2008 is organized by Orissa Dance Academy and Konark Natya Mandap in collaboration with Orissa Tourism and Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre. Dates:
Feb 19 – 21, 2008
Day two of the festival will start with a Satvik Veena recital presented by Salil Bhatt from Jaipur accompanied on tabla by Ram Kumar Mishra. This would be followed by a group Kuchipudi recital by PB Pallabi and troupe from Hyderabad followed by an Odissi dance duet performed by Guru Manoranjan Pradhan and Minati Pradhan. Day two would conclude with the presentation of ‘Radha Prem Leela’ presented by Nrutyalaya from Nimapara. Day three of the festival will host an Odissi vocal presentation by Nazia Alam from Bhubaneswar followed by a group Kathak dance presentation by Saswati Sen and troupe with the benign presence of Kathak maestro Birju Maharaj from New Delhi. This would be followed by a group Odissi dance presentation by Smitalaya from Mumbai followed by Ranapa and Chadheya dance presentation by Shubhashree Shankhadhwani Kala Kendra from Ganjam. The festival would also hold a 'Sahitya Utsav' on 20th and 21st February which would have the presence of eminent poets and litterateurs from Orissa. For details:
Ph: +9937008022 / +9437306211
The preview
is by Odissi and Bharatanatyam artist and freelance journalist Manasi Pandya,
Baroda.
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