Artistes from different states perform at the Vedvyas Sangeet Nrutyotsav held at Bhanja Bhavan in Rourkela. Pictures by Uttam Kumar Pal

Bhubaneswar, Nov. 9: A colourful collage of classical and folk dance, along with music, enchanted residents during the five-day Vedvyas Sangeet Nrutyotsav held at Bhanja Bhavan in Rourkela.

Organised by the city-based cultural outfit Bhanja Kala Kendra, reputed artists, as well as promising talents, showcased brilliant performances at the event, which concluded last week.

The first evening began with an Odissi sequence of Shakti Chatustaya choreographed by Guru Durga Charan Ranbir and performed by artistes of Bhanja Kala Kendra. The fascinating Ghumura folk dance by artists from Bhawanipatna and the breathtaking Bhawai dance by Rajasthani folk artistes were the other attractions of the opening day.

The following day was full of delightful programmes such as the awe-inspiring Gotipua formations by young boys from Raghurajpur, who stole the hearts of the viewers. A rendition of Sattriya by Anita Sharma and her troupe also mesmerised classical dance enthusiasts of the city. The magic of Odissi music gripped the audience on the third evening.

Renowned Odissi musicians such as Guru Ramhari Das, Bijoy Jena, Dhaneswar Swain and Satchitananda Das rendered timeless classics and also presented a captivating musical symphony. Well-known vocalist Binapani Rath cast a spell on the listeners with his performance.

The Kathak recital by danseuse Richa Gupta and Swapan Mazumdar was enchanting. Bringing alive the romantic raasleela of Radha and Krishna on the stage, the artistic expressions and effortless movements of the dancers was a delightful treat for the viewers.

Artists from Chhatisgarh showcased the Rawat dance, a form of tribal dance, while disciples of Anita Das of Bhanja Kala Kendra performed Sambalpuri dance.

Odissi dancer Geeta Mahalik received huge appreciation for her elegant performance on the concluding day of the cultural extravaganza.

“Mahalik put on a magical performance. I wish more such events are organised regularly in the city where reputed artists from different dance forms come together on one stage,” said Ritika Das, a young viewer.

“People in Rourkela love cultural events and are appreciate classical music and dance. They also love tribal and folk performing arts. Therefore, we tried to present an array of dance and music forms,” said Dibakar Panigrahi, one of the organisers.