Chandipur beach in Balasore. Telegraph picture
Balasore, Jan. 7: The annual GoldenBeachFestivalat Chandipuris scheduled to begin tomorrow.
The four-day extravaganza will witnessa number of cultural activities including dances between January 8 and January 11.This is the 17th year of the festivalthat is organised by a committee with the support ofthe district administrationand state government.
While culturalprogrammeswill be held every evening with performances by artists from various states, the local defence units, especially proof and experimental establishment and integrated test range (ITR), have evinced interest in putting up kiosks at the festival for displaying their guns, artillery and missiles.
Hoteliershere extend 20 per cent discount to visitors during this period.Mohammad Alam, a hotel owner in Chandipur, said: 'Winter is generally good for the industry and most hotels are fully booked during the period.This year, we are extending 20 per cent discount during the festival period. So far, more than 50 per cent rooms have already been booked. The response is very encouraging.'
Bismay Mohanty, secretary of thebeachfestivalcommittee, said: 'Cultural eventswill be held each evening. Eastern Zone Cultural Centre and the state cultural department have agreed to send their troupes. However, local artists will also be given the opportunity to showcase their talents. Other attractions will include water sports such as rafting and parasailing on thebeach.'
The dances to be performed during the festival includeChhau, Ranapa, Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Ghumar and Bihu besides Odissi, animal dance and Sambalpuri.
Chandipurbeach is a major tourist attraction of the state. The sea here recedes about 3km twice a day. The number of tourists increases during the festival.
'There is a proposal for holding women's kabbadi and volleyball matches on thebeach during the festival,' said Harekrushna Dash, another member of the festival committee.
He added that about 150 kiosks would be set up at the venue to display handicraftsand handloom items. The items will be available at 30 per cent discount.