and the exquisite Natyamandir or the dancing hall of this 700-year old shrine is an architectural wonder with well-adorned sculptures of Odissi dance poses.
In the backdrop of the sun temples, a Konark Dance Festival is organised every year in Orissa.
The Konark Dance Festival is an annual cultural event held in the town of Konark, Odisha, India. It is dedicated to showcasing classical Indian dance forms, with a focus on Odissi, one of the major classical dances of India. The festival takes place in the backdrop of the magnificent Sun Temple of Konark, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Key Highlights:
- Location: The festival is held in an open-air auditorium in front of the Sun Temple, adding an awe-inspiring historical and spiritual ambiance to the performances.
- Time: The festival typically takes place in the first week of December, attracting dance enthusiasts and tourists from all over the world.
- Dance Forms: While Odissi is the primary focus, the festival also features other classical dance forms such as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi, and Kathakali. Performances are enriched by live classical music.
- Organizers: The festival is organized by the Odisha Tourism Department, in collaboration with various cultural bodies and dance institutions.
- Objective: The event aims to preserve and promote India's rich cultural heritage and provide a platform for established as well as emerging classical dancers.
This world heritage sight was formed way back in the 13th century on the beach of Chandrabagha. Natyamandir is one attractive piece of architecture as every inch of its walls have been covered with fine artistic designs of the ancient times. You can see small carvings of musicians playing drums, cymbals and other musical instruments. The sculptures are blessed with changing intensity and a range of emotions.
The dancing hall plays a host to celebrated dancers from all over the country to perform in the open-air auditorium. The festival is organised to celebrate the much appreciated Odissi, Bharathnatyam, Manipuri, Kathak and Chau Dance – and is served as a lavish feast for the audiences. The sound of ghungroo, flute and pakhauj gets you in a festive mood. Also, there is a crafts mela where you can find a variety of handicrafts and tasty cuisines. Konark Dance Festival is jointly organised by Orissa Tourism and Odissi Research Centre.
The performances take place in an open-air auditorium against the backdrop of t
he floodlit temples that reverberates with the beats of Raga and Tala . The entire place is filled with the classical music sound and this classical extravaganza is a journey through eternal ecstasy.
The festival provides a platform to both, performing artiste and the dance connoisseurs. Through this dias, these participants get to appreciate the essence of various classical dance forms of the country. And it proves to be stepping stone for new artists who are yet to make their mark on the international scale.
Celebrations are a universal way of expressing joy, marking special occasions, and connecting with culture, tradition, and community. They can range from personal milestones like birthdays and weddings to grand public events such as festivals, national holidays, and religious observances.
Here are a few key aspects of celebrations:
1. Cultural Celebrations:
-
Cultural festivals like Diwali, Christmas, Lunar New Year, and Eid are celebrated by communities worldwide, reflecting diverse traditions, customs, and rituals. These events often involve specific foods, decorations, and activities that are unique to the culture.
2. Religious Celebrations:
-
Religious holidays and festivals, such as Easter, Ramadan, Hanukkah, and Vesak, are observed by followers of various faiths. These celebrations often have deep spiritual significance and include prayers, fasting, feasting, and communal gatherings.
3. Seasonal Celebrations:
-
Festivals that mark the change of seasons, like the Spring Equinox, Harvest Festivals, and New Year's Eve, often have agricultural, environmental, or astronomical roots. Examples include Thanksgiving in the U.S. and the Midsummer Festival in Scandinavian countries.
4. Public and National Celebrations:
-
National holidays such as Independence Day, Republic Day, or Bastille Day are moments of patriotic pride and unity, often marked by parades, fireworks, and other public events. These celebrations often symbolize national identity and historical milestones.
5. Personal Celebrations:
-
Birthdays, anniversaries, and weddings are common personal celebrations that mark important moments in an individual’s life. These events often include family and friends, and are marked with gifts, special meals, and gatherings.
6. Artistic and Cultural Festivals:
-
Celebrations like the Konark Dance Festival, the Rio Carnival, and the Venice Film Festival celebrate art, music, dance, and cinema. These festivals bring together people from around the world to enjoy performances, exhibitions, and creative expression.
7. Community Celebrations:
-
Communities often come together for local events such as fairs, parades, and charity events. These celebrations strengthen communal bonds and celebrate local culture, history, and achievements.
Celebrations, whether big or small, allow people to connect with their heritage, express joy, and build meaningful relationships with others.
To read this article in Hindi click here 
Konark’s Sun Temple is known as a world heritage site and the exquisite Natyamandir or the dancing hall of this 700-year old shrine is an architectural wonder with well-adorned sculptures of Odissi dance poses.