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‘Badya Pallavi’ captivates audience as three-day ‘Parirambhanam 2026’ festival begins in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar, Nov 4 (UNI) A spellbinding presentation of Odissi dance, ‘Badya Pallavi’, captivated audiences at the inaugural evening of ‘Parirambhanam 2026’, the 16th annual dance and music festival organised by Nrutya Upasana Pitha, which began here on Wednesday amid rain.
The three-day festival, being held at Utkal Rangamancha, aims to promote Odisha’s rich classical and folk dance traditions while providing young and emerging artistes a platform to showcase their talent.
The inaugural evening featured a series of captivating performances by students and emerging dancers of the institution under the artistic direction and choreography of eminent Odissi Guru Sonali Mahapatra.
The programme opened with ‘Namami Bande’, followed by graceful presentations including ‘Ki Shobha’, ‘Haigo Jashoda Rani’ and ‘Sajeibu Nahin Baula Mala’. The classical compositions ‘Badya Pallavi’ and devotional presentation ‘Ahe Nilasaila’ further enriched the evening, drawing appreciation from the audience.
The performances reflected the artistes' command over rhythm, expressive storytelling and graceful movements, showcasing the dedication and training of the young dancers.
The evening also highlighted Odisha's vibrant folk heritage through Sambalpuri and tribal dance performances, offering glimpses of the state's diverse cultural traditions.
The inaugural programme was attended by eminent Odissi Gurus and personalities, including Guru Minati Pradhan, Odissi danseuse and Ollywood actress Guru Pratibha Panda, and distinguished dancer Guru Rajashree Chintak Behera. The programme was presided over by institution president Sudarshan Dash, while eminent flautist Guru Abhiram Nanda extended his support to the event.
Speaking on the occasion, Guru Sonali Mahapatra emphasised the importance of providing young dancers with opportunities to perform and gain practical stage experience. Such platforms, she said, help build artistic confidence and strengthen the younger generation's connection with Odisha's cultural heritage.
She also highlighted the significance of bringing classical and folk dance traditions together to celebrate the diverse artistic expressions of the state.
The festival seeks to nurture emerging talent by combining formal training with practical exposure, discipline and dedication to the performing arts.
Nrutya Upasana Pitha has been working towards the preservation and promotion of Odissi dance and music through its various cultural initiatives. Its annual festival has emerged as a platform for upholding classical traditions while encouraging young artistes.
The second evening of the festival on Thursday will feature the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to eminent Odissi Guru Dhaneswar Swain in recognition of his invaluable contribution and lifelong dedication to the art form.
UNI DP
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