Bhubaneswar, May 21: The state government organised a daylong summer festival in Bargarh today to promote rural artistes and develop the district as a popular tourist destination.

The festival featured a wide array of cultural shows conducted by Odisha Sangeet Natak Akademi, Odisha Lalit Kala Akademi and Odisha Sahitya Akademi.

The festival aims to highlight the cultural excellence of the district.

"The festival is an attempt to showcase the talent of Bargarh artistes. Many artistes from the district don't get recognition, as there is no proper platform to showcase their talents. The festival was a step to recognise the vibrant culture of the district and its artistes," said culture minister Ashok Panda.

Kosali poet Haldhar Nag, who took part in the festival, interacted with the writers. A poetry reading session and an exhibition of books published by Odisha Sahitya Akademi were also conducted.

This apart, an art exhibition was also held, in which 40 artists, including many from the district, showcased their work. "We had invited a few renowned artists from the state to interact with the young painters. The artists were encouraged to capture the beauty of the district to help promote the place," said secretary of Odisha Lalit Kala Akademi Tarakanta Parida.

A folk dance show by the local cultural groups was also held at the festival. Dhap, Kalanga Danda and Sambalpuri are among the few local dance forms that were presented on the stage.

A number of events were also scheduled yesterday as part of the festival, but were cancelled because of heavy rain and storm. "A number of paintings were destroyed so we had to wrap up the exhibition early," Parida said.

The state government has been hosting the Grishma Utsav, Megha Utsav and Seeta Utsav during summer, monsoon and winter seasons, respectively to promote rural artists since the past few years. Earlier, these festivals were hosted at Daringbadi, Balangir and Phulbani as well.

Bargarh, apart from having a number of tourist attractions, is also famous for Dhanu Yatra, which is touted as the biggest open theatrical stage depicting Krishna Leela.