Surfing training by SUP expert and popular surf writer April Jilg

The sun-kissed beach with a steady breeze played wonderful host at the scenic coast of Ramachandi beach in Konark. During the recently concluded second edition of India Surf Festival, the holiday spot became the perfect getaway for people who love sand, sea and surfing. The three-day festival became the perfect occasion for surfers and artistes to let their hair down.

Surfing yoga

Coming from different coastal regions of the globe, the surfers made hay while the sun shone. This year even artists and musicians joined the party and took the celebration of art, adventure and music to its pinnacle.

Hargo Khalsa and Sanjay Parekh of Hargo band

Age, as they say, is mind over matter. That’s why from 12-year-old Kalyani Rayithi from Vizag to 67-year-old Jeff aka Swami from USA, many came to exhibit their authority over the unruly waves.

Onlookers were left enchanted by the acrobatic moves performed by ace kite-surfer Rahul Malaney of Goa.

Arpita and Ishita, two Indian girls, took to the seawater as mermaids would.

Covelong boys, the last year’s champs, were there to defend their title.

Defending champs Covelong Boys

The participants and visitors had their hands full of adventurous activities such as Stand Up Paddle (SUP), Kite Surf, SUP Yoga and recreational activities such as dance, music and artistry.

Although several races were held, not once did it appear to be a fierce competition, but turned out to be revelry among friends.

Surf as you like it

While the mornings saw hustle bustle at the sea, the evenings came alive by the high voltage performances by bands such as Antariksh and Hargo.

The man behind the mission was Sanjay Samantaray.

Getting the parachute ready for Kite Surf

“We wish to encourage oneness among all types of surfers and coerce them to become change makers. The India Surf Festival promotes wholesome surf culture in India with a mission to take water sports to a new level through SUP as a sustainable alternative towards building an eco-friendly adventure,” he said.

Pratyush Patra