Bhubaneswar: A vibrant celebration of Odisha’s indigenous culture began in Bhawanipatna on Saturday as the two-day Tribal Dance and Music Festival ‘Dangar’ opened with colourful performances by tribal artistes from different communities across the state.
Organised jointly by the Odisha Sangeet Natak Akademi, District Cultural Council, Kalahandi, and Shubham Institute under the aegis of the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department, the festival is being held at Mahavir Sanskrutik Anusthan in Kalahandi district on May 9 and 10.
The inaugural evening witnessed performances of traditional Koya, Khadia, Kisan, Patar Saura, Lanjia Saura and Singari dances, drawing enthusiastic applause from the audience. Artists dressed in vibrant traditional attire showcased the unique rhythm, music and customs of their respective tribal communities.
Additional District Magistrate of Kalahandi Tanmaya Kumar Darwan inaugurated the festival in the presence of Degree College Professor Jayaprakash Narayan, eminent social workers Jayanarayan and Jayant Kumar Behera, senior speaker Bhabendra Kumar Panda and District Cultural Officer Vivekananda Mahananda.
Addressing the gathering, the speakers highlighted the originality and richness of tribal dance and music traditions and stressed the need to preserve these cultural practices for future generations. They said young artistes have a crucial role in promoting tribal art forms globally and keeping the traditions alive.
Vice President of Mahavir Sanskrutik Anusthan Sanjay Kumar delivered the welcome address, while Chairman of Shubham Institute Sushant Kumar Singh proposed the vote of thanks. The programme was moderated by Dr. Chandrasekhar Hota, secretary of the Odisha Sangeet Natak Akademi.
