The second evening of the Konark Festival here on Monday witnessed a soul-stirring performance in Kathakali and Mohiniattam styles presented by Sadanam Balakrishnan, Pallavi Balakrishnan and group.
Radha Madhavam, a unique dance, choreographed in Kathakali and Mohiniattam tradition depicted the longing of Radha and Krishna for each other. It superbly portrayed the human embodiment of love, passion and devotion at platonic level.
The next presentation was an Odishi dance choreographed by Guru Bichitrananda Swain and group of the Rudraikshya Foundation. In their first rendering, Mana gala charan, the artists invoked lord Krishna offering salutation and prayer for the wellbeing of all.
Next followed Tala Madhurya, an outstanding composition of rhythmic beats of Odishi Mardala in dance form. The music of Guru Ramahari Das coupled with the rhythmic composition of Guru Dhaneswar Swain was remarkable.
The evening also witnessed dancers presenting an Astapadi from Sri Geeta Govindam which depicted the plight of Radha, who visualised consort Krishna’s love with Chandrabali.
The last item dished out was Nirvan Shatakam, which dealt with an inquiry into self with soul-searching music and exquisite yogic postures, the composition bringing about a serene repose.
The programme was inaugurated by the guests of the evening Prof Ramhari Das, Prof Bidubhusan Das, Director, Tourism MR Patnaik, Guru Aruna Mohanty and OTDC General Manager BP Mishra. Dr Sadhana Srivatav and Dr Mrutynjay Rath compered the show.