Puri-based Ruprashree Kalamandir organised its sixth edition of Shree Mandira Mahari Parampara at the Rabindra Mandap here on Sunday. Noted researcher Dr Subhas Pani, Odishi Guru Gobindo Chandra Pal, and Odishi dancer Prof Naba Kishore Mishra were conferred with the Sashimani Devadasi Award on the occasion. “The festival is an attempt to promote the Mahari dance tradition,” said Rupashree Kala Mandir secretary Rupashree Mohapatra. This year, the festival was dedicated to the last Mahari Devadasi (ritual dancer) of Shree Jagannath Temple Sashimani Devi. The performances of Mahari dancers enchanted the Rabindra Mandap audience. As many as 14 dancers showcased the Mahari ritualistic dance styles. The evening featured dancer Rupashree Mohapatra’s performance on Niladri Sankha Madhye Satadala Kamale.
The event also witnessed Abhinayas Srikrushna nka Banshidhwani Suni, Nahinke Kahidela, Mallimala Shyamaku Debi, Ki Dekhila Aja Netra, Ki Shobha go Kunje, etc. Padmashree Priyambada Mohanty Hejmadi, Dillip Srichandan and president of the organisation were present as the guests.