(Top) Artistes from Assam Nrutya Mandal perform Bihu and (bottom) a cultural programme dedicated to legendary Bhikari Bal held at the ongoing Barabati Nrutyotsav. Pictures by Badrikanath Das

Cuttack, Dec. 24: People of the Millenium City turned up in large numbers on Thursday evening to enjoy a plethora of dances at the ongoing Barabati Nrutyotsav.

The traditional Bihu dance of Assam was the centre of attraction at the festival held at the Killa Maidan.

The artistes of Assam Nrutya Samaj weaved magic with their dance, which showcased the life of Assamese people.

Dancing to the tunes of traditional musical instruments like flutes and other wind instruments made of bamboo, the artistes depicted themes like life, happiness as well as unity in diversity.

“We just hope to entertain the audiences as we know that though Bihu is popular in other countries, many people in India are yet to understand the speciality of our dance that is being performed since generations,” said an artiste of the group.

“For the past six years we have been performing in various cities across the country. But it was a wonderful experience to perform before an audience in Cuttack, which appreciated our programme. We are eager to come again next year,” said another member of the Assam Nrutya Samaj.

The event has so far featured performances by artistes of Sutra Academy, Odissi by Guru Aruna Mohanty and Russian dancer Aishcia as well as recitals of Kathak and Bharatnatyam.

“The Barabati Nrutyotsav has provided us with an opportunity to witness the various traditional dance forms of the country,” said a viewer, Prakash Sahoo.

Kamala Devi, another member of the audience, said: “I feel immensely proud that dancers from outside the country are more inclined to learn Odissi.”

The Barabati Nrutyotsav, which has entered its 10th year, is the brainchild of Odissi Guru Asish Das. Today, the Orissa Nrutya Mandal, which is the organiser of the mega dance festival, has come a long way and has got adequate support from the district administration, state tourism and culture department.

Besides Bihu, a cultural programme dedicated to legendary bhajan samrat Bhikari Bal was held on Thursday evening. The artists of Omkar group sang the famous songs of Bikhari Bal including Mu Ta Bada Deula Ra Para Re and Shrikhestra Jibu Udi Udi Ki.

Noted singers Rakhal Mohanty, Ravindranath Mishra, Shantilata Chhotray and other artists paid rich tributes to late Bikhari Bal.