The 3rd State-Level Folk Dance and Music Festival concluded on Thursday with a variety of performances by different folk dance groups. Artistes from nine districts presented colourful dance forms on the last day.

Thursday evening began with the vibrant Ghumura dance by artistes of Ghumura Bichitra Dumduli, Nuapada. Ghuduki dance by Sangamapa Kala Parisad, Balangir was another highlight of the last day.

Mahima Sanskrutika Parisad, Jharsuguda, then showcased the Rasarkeli dance. Men played traditional percussion, while Sambalpuri sari-clad women had fun dancing together. The dance is performed traditionally during a marriage or other celebrations.

Among other interesting folk dances and theatre were Dulduli by Dhalia Khusa Kala Parisad, Baragarh; Patara Saura by Gelhamaa Kala Parisad, Boudh; Pala by Binapani Kala Parisad, Deogarh; Sambalpuri by Jayamadi Music Group and Nisan Kala Parisad, Subernapur; Ramaleela by Jayashreeram Ram Leela Committee, Kendrapara; Laudi by Laudi Ogala Research Centre, Bhadrak and Ghuduki by Maa Vairabi Anchalika Kalakara Sangha, Boudh.

The folk dance groups performed with their traditional costumes and musical instruments at the open air auditorium of Utkal Mandap.

Text: Namita Panda, Pictures: Ashwinee Pati