Bhubaneswar, Odisha : The state-level Gotipua Dance Festival has commenced today at the Guru Kelucharan Mahapatra Odishi Research Centre in Bhubaneswar. Organized under the support of the Department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture, this festival is a collaborative initiative with the Odisha Sangeet Natak Akademi and Lokakala Sangha. The festival will continue until 1st September 2025, showcasing the rich heritage of Odia classical dance.
A total of 20 Gotipua dance troupes are participating in the festival. The inaugural event witnessed performances and discussions involving renowned dance maestros such as Aruna Mahanti, Iliana Sitarist, Guru Ramhari Das, Dr. Chittaranjan Malia, Guru Govind Gopal, and music experts like Dr. Sangita Gosain. Also present were Dr. Chandra Shekhar Hota, Secretary of Odisha Sangeet Natak Akademi, and Smt. Suchismita Mantri, Administrative Officer of the Odishi Research Centre. They officially inaugurated the festival with ceremonial proceedings.
Speaking on the occasion, Smt. Mantri stated, “Gotipua is an inseparable part of our Odia culture, deeply connected with our rich dance heritage. This festival not only promotes traditional dance but also nurtures young talent, ensuring the continuation and dissemination of our classical arts.”
Today’s program included a panel discussion on “Gotipua: Singing, Music, and Presentation”. The first-day performances featured several esteemed troupes, including Chandrasekhar Gotipua Kala Sansad, Kailash Gotipua Nrutya Pratisthan, Ma Ashtabhuja Gotipua Kala Parishad, Murchhana Gotipua, Baba Gorekhanath Gotipua Dance Association, Ma Santoshi Gotipua, and Bankeshwari Gotipua Nrutya Parishad. Each troupe demonstrated exquisite Gotipua dance techniques, highlighting both traditional and innovative elements.
The festival aims to promote Odia classical culture, provide a platform for emerging artists, and strengthen the appreciation of Gotipua dance among wider audiences. Through such state-level initiatives, Odisha continues to celebrate and preserve its vibrant artistic heritage.
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