Konark Dance Festival Odisha

Not just for monuments, beaches or wonderful sites, Konark is majorly famous for its annual dance festival organized in the month of December and is a major tourist attraction. Konark is popular for this vibrant traditional festival, scenic beauty, and magnificent beaches. During the first five days of December every year, popular classical dancers across the country gather here to pay a tribute to the Sun Temple, Konark which is truly a masterpiece in itself. This classical extravaganza is organized by an Odissi Guru in association with Eastern Zonal Cultural Center at the Konark Natya Mandap. Natyamandir, an exquisite 700 year old dancing hall, is an architectural wonder, reflecting its rich art, heritage and, culture adorned with exquisite Odishi sculptures posing in various dance forms. When the sun sets, this open-air auditorium comes to life with the beats of music and rhythmic movements performed by eminent dancers under the starry moonlit sky. At the backdrop, poet recites their poetry which makes this event a cultural feast in its truest sense. Various dance forms like Odissi, Manipuri, Bharatnatyam, Chau, Kathak, Kuchipudi, and other popular Indian dances are performed with great enthusiasm by renowned artists.

The sound of Ghungroo bells, Pakhauj, flute and other musical instruments add to the charm of this event and make the celebration nothing less than a grand one. During this rich traditional festival, a 'craft mela' is also hosted that presents a wide range of delectable cuisines, pottery, artwork and handicrafts. This mela indeed adds a lot of color and fun to the dance festival. Post enjoying the spectacular dance performances, audience can shop for musical instruments, paintings, clay work and other interesting craft items of their choice. Thus, the venue is just perfect for families who wish to have a culture-filled and extremely joyous experience during their holidays. One must be wondering about the significance of this popular festival. Well, it acts as a potential platform for performing artists and connoisseur of dance. Budding dancers can actively participate in the dance festival in Konark and showcase their marvelous skills. The festival that is celebrated for five full days is a thrilling event during which quite a few dance competitions are organized too.

Highlights of the Festival

• Konark Dance Festival is organized in the world heritage site, the Sun Temple.
• It is held during the first five days of December month.
• The dance performances take place in the Natyamandir, an attractive piece of Indian architecture where the walls are covered with beautiful artistic designs from the ancient times.
• Celebrated dancers from all across the nation take part in the dance festival in an open-air auditorium.
• The sound of classical music fills the air with eternal delight.
• Dances forms like Odissi, Kuchipudi and Bharatnatyam are chief attractions here.