Odisha's Konark region hosts classical dance festival
Konark (Odisha), Dec.2 (ANI)
The famed Konark Dance Festival dedicated to the various Indian classical dance forms commenced in Odisha over the weekend.
The festival was inaugurated in the state's temple town Konark with the backdrop and magnificent view of its famed temples.
The inaugural evening of the five-day long festival on Saturday saw dancers performing to the Indian classical dance forms of Odishi and Kuchipudi.
Group of dancers performed on the stage throughout the evening leaving the audiences enthralled.
Festival organizer Aruna Mohanty said: "Many known and famous artistes of India have come here to perform. The atmosphere here is different, which is why people are coming in from far off places to see it. The weather is also very good. The enjoyment of sitting in an open air auditorium in the first week of December in Odisha is better than any other place."
While the audience was left spellbound on the first day of the festival, several foreign tourists also attended the event to catch a glimpse of India's rich culture with its unique classical dance forms.
"It is wonderful, it is mind blowing. I have never seen such beautiful dance, the choreography, I am overwhelmed. It is fantastic," said Arlend, an Australian tourist.
Several famous Indian danseuses and other performing artistes from all over the country have gathered in Konark town and will showcase their talents at the festival.
Apart from dance and music, paintings are also highlighted at the festival and several painters were present for the painting possession.
Apart from the two mentioned classical dance forms, other dances like Bharatnatyam, Kathak and Sattriya will also be performed.
The festival will end on December 5.