Bhubaneswar, March 15: The two-day folk art festival that aimed to promote the ruined fortification of Sisupalgarh concluded here today.

Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and Kalinga Association for Protection of Culture and Heritage (Kapoch) conducted the festival for the first time at Ekamra Haat here.

"The festival aims at making people aware of the rich Odia heritage and culture, and promote our cultural practices. We wanted to focus on the ancient urban site and appeal the government to place it on the state's tourism map," said R. Chatterjee, regional director of the ICCR.

Artistes of Srijak dance troupe from Calcutta presented a ballet dance form on the closing evening. Dressed in elegant costumes, synchronised postures and facial expressions, the artistes showcased a well-coordinated performance.

This was followed by a Gotipua dance recital by the artistes of Baba Gorekhnath Gotipua Dance Association of Chandanpur. They performed breathtaking acrobatics to enthral the audience.

Accompanied by traditional music, the dancers churned out stunning performances one after another. A dance recital, depicting the epic love story of Radha and Krishna, received maximum applause.

On the inaugural day, city-based Mayur Art Centre performed a form of Chhau dance. Clad in colourful costumes and striking masks, the dancers portrayed popular folklores.

The acrobatic skills of the dancers of Maa Anlei Paika Akhada Sangha mesmerised the audience. The artistes performed Paika Akhada, a traditional martial dance style of Khurda, to remind everyone of the rural dance form that is slowly fading away.

"I got to see a number of rare art forms that are not seen regularly. I had a great time," said Abhinav Routray, an engineering student.

"We hope to make the festival an annual one to promote the rare art forms and Sisupalgarh as well," said Sangram Paikaray, chairman of the Kapoch.