A performance on modern dance at the Kathajodi Mahotsav and (below) a folk dance event on the concluding day of the festival. Pictures by Badrika Nath Das

Cuttack, April 5: The 10 incarnations of Lord Vishnu took centre stage on the concluding day of the five-day cultural extravaganza — Kathajodi Mahotsav —here yesterday.

The festival showcased a number of cultural programmes and also provided a platform to folk dances on the verge of extinction from various parts of the state.

The audience enjoyed all the performances yesterday.

But it was the piece on Dasaavatar that was the centre of attraction at Sunshine Grounds in the city.

The artistes of Nrutya Jyoti Group from Cuttack gave a breathtaking Odissi performance that featured the 10 incarnations of Lord Vishnu.

“Even today, the mythological tale is an inspiration for thousands of artistes as well as audiences who are keen to understand the true essence of our tradition and rich history,” said an artiste.

Not only did the artistes enjoy themselves while performing, they had a memorable experience while interacting with Governor M.C. Bhandare who was guest of honour.

“It was a nice gesture by the Governor to interact with the artistes after their superb performance. I love modern dance and this was the first time that I enjoyed an Odissi performance. It is one dance form that has placed Orissa on the world map,” said Keshav Rout, a member of the audience.

Artistes from different parts of the state — from Kalahandi to Mayurbhanj — have performed at Kathajodi Mahotsav, which has been a crowd puller.

A modern dance piece by Aryan Dance Group was another attraction on the last day of the festival.

The artistes of the group paid a tribute to the motherland with their fusion dance performance to Bollywood chartbuster Jai Ho, composed by Oscar winner A.R. Rahman.

Eminent personalities including educationist Biswajit Mohanty, singer Sekhar Ghose, Odissi dancer Minati Mishra, cricketer Paresh Patel were felicitated by the Kathajodi Mahotsav committee for their contribution in their respective fields.

Rich tributes were also paid to the late Sikandar Alam and bhajan maestro Bhikari Bal.

“It is because of the appreciation and response from the people that Kathajodi Mahotsav has emerged as a major dance festival in the state. This year the festival entered its fourth year and we are looking forward to make the event more successful later,” said patron-in-chief Mohammad Moquim.