Dancers perform Mahari at Konark Dance Festival on Thursday. Telegraph picture

Bhubaneswar, Dec. 4: The ancient dance form, Mahari, was presented on the fourth evening of the ongoing Konark Dance Festival.

This was for the first time that the dance form, which originated from the temples of Odisha, was featured at the festival.

The repertoire was a tribute to Lord Jagannath ahead of Nabakalebar.

Speaking of the composition, Mahari exponent Rupashree Mohapatra said: “Through the recital, we wanted to describe the ceremonies that take place at the Lord’s abode in Puri on a daily basis.”

The dancers’ facial expressions and graceful movements were an integral part of the performance and with the Sun Temple in the backdrop, the artistes donned in their traditional attires.

Mohapatra considered the show as her opportunity to showcase the beauty of Mahari, which has been performed for centuries at the Indian temples, in front of an international audience.

“I am hopeful that this initiative to include Mahari in this popular festival will go a long way in broadening the visibility of this ancient dance form that is gradually fading away,” said Mohapatra.

Later, Vannadil Pudiyaveettil Dhananjayan and his troupe from Chennai presented Bharatanatyam. Dynamic and powerful, the recital involved intricate footwork and linear movements. For the audience, the performances were a visual delight.

“The dedication of the artistes towards the art form was evident from their performance. The compositions were very alluring,” said a member of the audience, Somali Mohapatra, who is a 28-year-old teacher.

On the concluding day, a renowned dance troupe from Bhutan will perform. They will present a number of folk dances and musical recitals from their country. Odissi exponent Durga Charan Ranbir will also perform with his team.