The 18th Vedvyas Sangeet Nrutyotsav, a national festival of classical dance, music and folk dance, got off to a glittering start here on Sunday evening. Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram graced the occasion as chief guest and inaugurated the festival.
M K Das, ED (Projects) RSP was the guest of honour on the occasion. A large number of culture loving people were also present to witness beautiful dance performances of the evening.
Speaking on the occasion, Oram complimented the organisers for the mega event. “Rourkela and areas in vicinity have immense tourism potential which needs to be explored. The Vedvyas Sangeet Nrutyotsav
will help promote tourism in and around our steel city,” he said. He reaffirmed his commitment for the enrichment of art and culture in the region.
Earlier the guests were accorded a warm welcome amidst blowing of conch and smearing of chandan and flowers. The programme began with singing of Vande Utkal Janani by the students of Bhanja Kala Kendra.
Eminent Mandala (drum) artiste of Sundargarh Hulash Mohato who has earned fame all over India with his scintillating performances was felicitated on the occasion.
The evening witnessed some marvellous classical and folk dance performances like Odissi performed by the artistes of Bhanja Kala Kendra, “Raut dance” by famed artistes from Chhattisgarh and tribal dance by Hulas Mahato and his troupe.