Dikhyaa Mohanty 
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday inaugurated the 36th edition of the world-famous Konark Festival, held against the majestic backdrop of the UNESCO-recognised Konark Sun Temple. The five-day cultural extravaganza remains one of Odisha’s most cherished platforms for classical dance and a major attraction for art enthusiasts from across India and abroad.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said classical dance forms were not merely artistic expressions but profound spiritual experiences that guided practitioners toward the divine. He described the Konark Festival as a vibrant symbol of Odisha’s cultural identity, noting that it not only showcases Odissi but also plays an important role in presenting the state’s artistic heritage on the global stage.
This year’s festival features performances by renowned artistes from across the country in classical dance forms such as Bharatanatyam, Kathakali, Manipuri, and Kathak, alongside Odissi. Majhi said that bringing together dance traditions from different states made the Konark Festival a vital platform for preserving and promoting India’s rich cultural heritage.
During the event, the Chief Minister also inaugurated the 15th International Sand Art Festival at Chandrabhaga beach. A total of 143 sand artists from various Indian states and several countries—including Japan, Spain, Russia, the Netherlands, Portugal and Sri Lanka—are participating this year.
This year’s event offers performances by prominent artistes from throughout the country in traditional dance styles like as Bharatanatyam, Kathakali, Manipuri, and Kathak, plus Odissi. Majhi stated that bringing together dance styles from different states makes the Konark Festival a critical venue for maintaining and showcasing India’s rich cultural history.
The 15th International Sand Art Festival at Chandrabhaga beach was also opened by the Chief Minister on the occasion. This year, 143 sand artists from different Indian states as well as a number of other nations, including Japan, Spain, Russia, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Sri Lanka, are taking part.
