Bhubaneswar, Feb. 19: The 27th edition of Konark Dance and Music Festival started at Konark Natya Mandap today. An array of classical and folk music recitals and dance performances regaled the audience. The fest will feature leading artistes, including tabla player Ustad Zakir Hussain, during its five-day itinerary.

Initiated by Guru Gangadhar Pradhan, the cultural activist and founder of Konark Natya Mandap, this extravaganza of dance and music began with the resonating tunes of violinist N. Rajam’s recital. The Maharashtra-based artiste played a soulful set for the gathering of connoisseurs. The musician said performing at the festival in the land of the Sun God was a special experience for him.

Dancers from Guru Gangadhar Foundation, Bhubaneswar, put up an impressive show during the Odissi sequence that was dedicated to their late guru. A troupe from Ganjam impressed viewers by their folk performing art, exhibiting their daring stunts while blowing the conch.

“We witnessed a great combination of classical and folk music and dance today. I am looking forward to enjoying performances in the following days,” said tourist Anjali Patel. In the next four days, reputed artists such as Hindustani vocalist Sumitra Guha, Bhartanatyam exponent Padma Vibhushan Alarmel Valli, folk dancers of Ranaranga Dance Academy from Sri Lanka, Mridangam guru Yella Venkateswar Rao, Kathak artiste Rajendra Gangani, doyen of Odissi music Pandit Damodar Hota, Kuchipudi danseuse Sobha Naidu and tabla wizard Ustad Zakir Hussain will enchant the audience.

“The Sanjukta Birala Prativa Samman that is awarded to commemorate legendary Odissi dancer Sanjukta Panigrahi will be presented to Alarmel Valli. We have instituted an award from last year in memory of my late father. It is the Guru Gangadhar Pradhan Lifetime Achievement Award. It will be conferred to Ustad Zakir Hussain ,” said Sibashis Pradhan, secretary of Konark Natya Mandap.