Swabhimaan Odia hosts Rajdhani Dance and Music Festival

By Swagatika Mohapatra

Bhubaneswar, Aug. 26: The Swabhiman Odia Charitable Trust on Monay organised the Rajdhani Dance and Music Festival and Swabhiman Samman ceremony at the Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra Odissi Research Centre, highlighting Odisha’s rich cultural heritage.

The event, aimed at preserving and promoting Odia art and traditions, was a resounding success.

Padma Shri Dr. Ashok Kumar Mohapatra graced the occasion as the chief guest, emphasising the importance of safeguarding Odisha’s dance and music traditions for future generations. “Our culture is our identity, and it is our responsibility to preserve and promote our art forms,” he said. Other distinguished guests included Guru Nimai Charan Lenka, social activists Shuchismita Prusty and Manasi Padhi, senior journalist Akshaya Kumar Sahoo, and journalist Arundhati Malik, who lauded the Trust’s efforts in championing Odia pride.

The festival featured captivating performances of traditional Odia art forms, including Odissi, Chhau, and Gotipua dances, alongside soulful musical renditions. The event also honored notable figures for their contributions to Odisha’s cultural landscape, including vocalist Sohini Mishra, journalist Aradhana, film producer and social activist M.N. Agrawal, and Keshab Narayan Das of Puri’s Surabhi Charitable Trust.

Shuchismita Prusty highlighted the global recognition of Odia traditional dance and music, stating, “Our culture and heritage are our pride, and they hold a unique place on the world stage.” Senior journalist Akshaya Kumar Sahoo echoed similar sentiments, urging the audience to preserve these traditions for future generations.

The event, attended by a large audience, underscored the Trust’s commitment to promoting Odisha’s art, culture, and music, reinforcing the significance of Odia identity and pride.