Grand Three-Day Mayurbhanj Festival Concludes at Utkal Mandap, Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar: The historic three-day Ekadasha Mayurbhanj Festival, organised by the Mayurbhanj Cultural Parliament, Bhubaneswar, concluded on a grand note at Utkal Mandap with a colourful and vibrant valedictory Sunday evening.
The closing ceremony was inaugurated by eminent MLA and Ollywood superstar Siddhanta Mahapatra, who graced the occasion as the chief guest. He was joined on the dais by General Secretary Dr Rajanikant Biswal, Editor Chinmay Das Pattnaik, and Editor Swaroop Ranjan Das. Following the inaugural address, the valedictory evening unfolded with a series of captivating cultural performances.
The programme began with the audio-visual presentation of the Mayurbhanj Cultural Parliament’s theme song, directed by renowned Ollywood filmmaker Tapas Sagharia and his team. This was followed by vibrant tribal dance performances, including Bharang dance and Maa Sunamui Ho dance, presented by the Mayurbhanjia Indigenous Tribal Association, Bhubaneswar.
The audience was mesmerised by the world-famous Chhau dance performed by the Nichuapada Chhau Dance Institute, while the energetic Jhumar songs and dances by Baripada’s Bindu Jhumar Group received thunderous applause.
Adding to the evening’s charm were engaging modern dance performances featuring Ollywood-Bollywood fusion by Anubala Mahanti Group, Suryasnata Pani Group, Abhiram Abhinaya Anusthan, and Orphan Boys Group. Renowned playback singer Debashish Mahapatra enthralled the audience with his soulful singing.
One of the major highlights of the evening was the presence of cine star Swaraj Barik, whose special dance performance drew loud cheers. The programme was further enriched by the gracious presence of superstar Babushaan Mohanty and veteran actress Aparajita Mohanty.
The ladies’ group ramp show presented by the Mayurbhanj Cultural Parliament added glamour and excitement to the celebrations.
The festival also showcased traditional handicrafts by artisans such as Papu Pam Pam, Hansaraj Das, and Sagar Lenka, along with a delightful spread of Mayurbhanj’s famous cuisine, including Suadia Bada Tarkari, Arisa Pitha, and Gud Laddu, which attracted large crowds.
The third and concluding evening was efficiently coordinated by Editor and noted Ollywood writer-director Chinmay Das Pattnaik, while stage presentation was handled by acclaimed actor Sukanta Rath.
Clarifying that entry to the festival was completely free for all, Editor and entrepreneur Swaroop Ranjan Das emphasised the inclusive spirit of the event.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by General Secretary Dr Rajanikant Biswal.
The grand celebration stood as a vibrant tribute to Mayurbhanj’s rich cultural heritage, drawing enthusiastic participation from art lovers across the city.