A Kuchipudi rendition by Veena Mani and (below) Priya Narayan performs Bharatnatyam at Cuttack Mahotsav. Pictures by Badrika Nath Das

Cuttack, Jan. 8: A unique display of Kuchipudi with impeccable synchronisation and rhythm, stole the show at the sixth Cuttack Mahotsav here on Wednesday.

Veena Mani from New Delhi was the cynosure of the show. She danced with astounding grace that was heavily applauded by the audience.

The recital began with the traditional sabdam in which the danseuse depicted the Dasavataram Sabdam with great gusto.

The entire show portrayed the 10 incarnations of Lord Vishnu from Matsya(fish) to Kalki avatar (man on the horse). Later, the dancer showcased Ayigiri Nandini, which was a tribute to goddess Durga as Mahishasura Mardini.

The dance recital was followed by the traditional tarangam that left the audience spellbound. Veena splendidly showcased her act on the rims of a brass plate.

The recital Marakata Mani Maya Chela consisted of fast rhythmic patterns, (jathis) choreographed by Padma Bhushan awardee, the late Vempati Chinna Satyam.

“It was a great moment for me to perform in front of this lovely audience and the way they appreciated the performance,” said Veena.

Apart from Kuchipudi, a Bharatnatyam performance by Priya Narayan from the USA was also appreciated by the audience that was present on the occasion yesterday.

Priya began her show with the traditional Pushpanjali and portrayed the love between Shiva and Parvati. The dance recital was set to taal adi. Earlier, another Bharatnatyam performance by Janhvi R. Birpalia mesmerised the audience through her devistrotram, describing the various manifestations of goddess Shakti.

The Cuttack Mahotsav organised by Utkal Sanskrutik Yuva Sangha (UYSS) has now become the most important cultural extravaganza that showcases the rich Indian classical dance forms at one platform.

Cuttack Mahotsav is being organised every year and there were 500 artistes, including vocalists, dancers and other experts from various fields in this year’s event.

“We are trying our best to provide a real glimpse of the traditional dance forms, which needs appreciation and patronage from the people. So far, the festival has been very well received by the residents of Cuttack,” said Kartik Rath, the general secretary of UYSS.