Artistes from Kathak Kendra and (below) Odisha Dance Academy perform at Dhauli Mahotsav. Telegraph pictures

Bhubaneswar, Dec. 11: The white Dhauli peace pagoda lit up in the moonlit sky on Saturday evening as dancers paid homage to the philosophy of Lord Buddha — the apostle of peace.

The inaugural evening of Dhauli Mahotsav on the foothills of Dhauli overlooking the Daya river, which was the historic site of the famous Kalinga war, appeared to be a celebration of the transformation of Chandashoka to Dharmashoka.

An Odissi repertoire by the students of the Odisha Dance Academy gave a wonderful start to the three-day dance festival.

Starting off with a tribute to the Dhauli peace pagoda and the legend of Ashoka’s transformation, enacting the war scene and the subsequent repentance of the mighty emperor in a touching style, a team of more than 10 dancers moved on to present a beautiful choreography of the Sun God.

The Aditya Archana, beautifully scripted by Kedar Mishra and choreographed by danseuse Aruna Mohanty, was made even more lively by the team of musicians and vocalists. The last presentation of the team was Vande Mataram that celebrated the spirit of the nation through a blend of Odissi and folk dance elements.

Artistes from Delhi-based Kathak Kendra showcased some traditional sequences of kathak. Pandit Rajendra Gangani performed a long solo rendition that included bits from the complete repertoire of kathak style. He started with a bandish enacting the moves of a peacock and then presented upaj — pure footwork based on the beats of the tabla and the ankle bells.

He also performed a Ghungat Gat and Bedam to enthrall the viewers. His team of male dancers presented an energetic item on Lord Shiva — Anadi Anant.

Despite lack of coordination among dancers few times, there were some impressive moments in the recital. A mega gotipua composition was also performed that stole the show for the evening.

“I loved all the dance items. The gotipua artistes were particularly impressive and showcased stunning formations. The Dhauli pagoda looked the perfect backdrop,” said Swati Priyadarshini, a viewer.

The festival is on till December 12.