Artistes perform Odissi at a concert organised by ICCR at Kala Vikash Kendra in Cuttack. Pictures by Badrika Nath Das

Cuttack, Aug. 1: Odissi exponent Sasmita Panda and her troupe, Odissi Nrutya Mandal, recently performed dance recitals at a concert held by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations at Kala Vikash Kendra in the city.

The Odissi recital began with Ganesh bandana and mangalacharan in which the artist invoked Lord Ganesh and sought permission for the recital. The performance was staged in three sections, including bhumi pranam, bandana and sabha pranam.

The music was composed by Akhil Lenka and the choreography by Ashish Das. Sasmita performed pallavi, a composition by late Kelucharan Mohapatra.

A large number of viewers bore witness to the cultural extravaganza that was being held in the city after a long gap.

“It’s been days since we had the chance to watch such a splendid Odissi performance. Efforts should be initiated to ensure that such kind cultural programmes are regularly held to preserve our rich tradition,” said Biplab Singh, 44, a viewer.

The sequence on Madhurastaka and a group performance titled Jaya Rasheswari Radhe were the centre of attraction.

Madhurastaka written by Vallabhacharya is a composition expanding on the beauty of Lord Krishna — since his childhood to the time when he overpowers Kaliya, the serpent. Sasmita gracefully depicted the tales and adventures in the solo performance.

“Words are too weak to depict the beauty of Lord Krishna, who is full of love, energy and compassion. However, this performance was impressive. Even the rasa lila, portrayed by the troupe, was staged with amazing synchronisation among the artistes. Traditional instruments added to the enchantment of the rendition portraying the gopis’ love for Krishna,” said Geetanjali Swain, 31, another member from the audience.

“The council has been organising many cultural programmes under the Horizon series, which aim to reach out the youth and at the same time, provide an opportunity to our artistes to showcase their talents,” said regional director of the council Minakshi Mishra.