Classical Dance festivals of India

Chaitra Parba Chhau Festival 

Place: Baripada (Mayurbanj Dist.), Kakatpur (Puri Dist.), Orissa 
Date: April
The 'Chaitra Parba' or 'Chhau Festival' commences from the 10th/11th April
every year and continues for three days concluding on 'Mahabishuba
Sankranti Day' at Baripada. Celebrated in honour of Lord Shiva and Surya,
the Sun God. 
Source: http://www.orissatourism.gov.in/archiveshow.asp 

Contact 
Dept. of Tourism 
Paryatan Bhawan 
Museum Campus 
Bhubaneswr - 751 014 
Ph: (674) 2432177 
email: ortour@orissatourism.gov.in 

Dharani Kalotsav 
Place: Kochi 
Date: Nov 1st week
Dharani Kalotsav is organised by Society Dharani and held at Kerala Fine
Arts Hall. In December 1999 Shayamala Surendran formed the Society
Dharani for bringing eminent artists to perform and give lecture
demonstrations in Kochi. 

Contact 
Shymala Surendran 
"Dharani", XLII /2168 
S R M Road, Kochi 682018 
Ph: (0484) - 2401143 / 2401400 
e-mail: shyamalasurendran@yahoo.com 
shyamala@md5.vsnl.net.in 

Ekamra Utsav 
Place: Mukteswar temple, Orissa 
Date: January / February

Ekamra Utsav - A lively downtown 15 days festival at Bhubaneswar in early

January, Ekamra Utsav is a life time experience for the vacationers. The
highlight of the festivities is Mukteswar Dance Festival held on the
courtyards of this famed temple where the eminent exponents of Odissi
dance enliven the stage with their magical performances. Besides the dance
performances, the visitors to Ekamra Utsav are treated to an expo of
traditional art and craft, a flower show, a multicultural food court, a heritage
walk and the attractive discounts offered by the leading shopping centres to
the tourists complement the festival mood. 
Source: http://www.orissatourism.org/orissa-fairs-festivals/orissa-tourist-
festivals.html

Contact 
Dept. of Tourism 
Govt. of Orissa 
Paryatam Bhavan 
Bhubaneshwar 751014 
Ph: (0674) - 2432177 
email: ortour@orissatourism.gov.in 

Elephanta Festival 
Place: Elephanta island, Maharashtra 
Date: mid February

To commemorate the living heritage of Indian dance, sculpture and art,

Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) in association with
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has organized the Elephanta Festival. The
Elephanta Festival is a tribute to classical performers and an initiative to
popularize Indian classical dance and heritage art forms. A renowned world
heritage site, Elephanta forms a stunning backdrop for India's leading artists
as they enthral you with their music and dance recitals. TCS in partnership
with MTDC is delighted to be associated with the Elephanta festival.

The festival features eminent artistes, showcasing a traditional welcome with

the catchy tunes of 'Koli' fisher folks, the aesthetically erected stage, bright
lights, delicious ethnic food and the marvellously illuminated Maheshmurti
cave. The festival also hosts a number of ethnic food stalls which highlight
the traditional foods of the locality. First started in 1989, this festival is
organized by MTDC, in Association with Tata Consultancy Services.

Contact 
Maharashtra Tourism Devt. Corpn. (M T D C) 
9th Floor, Express Towers 
Nariman Point, Mumbai 400021 
Ph: (022) - 22024522 / 22024584 / 22023439 

Ellora-Ajanta Festival 
Place: Soneri Mahal, Aurangabad 
Date: November / December

The Ellora Ajanta Aurangabad festival is organized by Aurangabad Festival

Committee under the chairmanship of the Divisional Commissioner
Aurangabad in association with MTDC. The Festival is held at the Soneri
Mahal, a grand historical Haveli in Aurangabad. Apart from the cultural
entertainment of the highest order - a mix of classical and folk dancing,
instrumental, vocals and milajula mushaira, there are stalls exhibiting the
artistry of the craftsmen from across the state, along with activities like
Rangoli, painting, mehendi, cookery, essays, bhajans, games &
competitions.

The venue was shifted from the Kailash temple at Ellora in 2002 & the name
changed from Ellora festival to Ellora-Ajanta festival. Previously held at the
enchanting Ellora caves the festival has now shifted its venue to the
magnificent Soneri Mahal. Built in the 17th century, this Mahal was built by
Pahadsing a Orchha chieftainis and is an architectural marvel of Aurangabad.
The Ellora Ajanta Aurangabad Festival aimed to put the historical and
pictorial sites in and around Aurangabad in the spotlight, some of them
being Ellora, Daulatabad, Bibi-ka-Maqbara, Panchakki (A watermill), Lonar,
Ajanta and Shirdi. 
Source: http://www.aurangabadfestival.in/about-festival.html 
http://www.maharashtratourism.gov.in/MTDC/HTML/MaharashtraTourism/ 
Contact 
The Ellora-Ajanta Festival, Aurangabad Committee 
Mr.Dilip Shinde. 
Chief co-coordinator & Dy Secretary (Housing Department) 
Mantralaya, Mumbai 
Ph:022-22024678 / 22871515 
e-mail: dilipshindedc@yahoo.co.inn 

Ganga Mahotsav 
Place: Varanasi, UP 
Date: November
GANGA MAHOTSAV, a five-day cultural tourism fiesta is organized by the
Government of Uttar Pradesh on the banks of the river Ganges in Varanasi.
This festival is celebrated to promote Varanasi as the cultural capital of India
and the Ganga as India's vital lifeline. The festival is a crowd puller and both
foreign and Indian tourists make a beeline to the heritage ghats - symbols of
eternal India - to experience music and dance. 

Gunghroo Festival 
Place: Different cities in Madhya Pradesh 
Date: November

In order to provide platform to young and talented artists of different styles

of Classical dance Academy has organised Gunghroo Festival. This festival is
on since 1984. This programme since last few years is been organised every
year in one of the cities successfully. This is a very unusual festival on
different styles of classical dances of India.

Ustad Alauddin Khan Music and Art Academy organises various festivals to
promote music & dance - "Alauddin Khan Vyakhayan mala", "Utteradhikar",
"Gunghroo", "Durlabh Vadya Vinod", "Dhrupad Festival", "Chakradhar
Festival", " Kumar Gandharva Festival - Dances","Ameer Khan Festival-
Indore", "Alauddin Khan Festival-Mehar". 
Source: http://www.mpculture.in/html/ustad3.asp

Contact 
Ustad Allaudin Khan Sangeet Academy 
Sanskriti Bhavan 
Banganga, Bhopal 462003 
Ph: (0755) - 553058 

Hampi Utsav 
Place: Hampi 
Date: November
A three-day mega cultural festival of dance, music and drama, folk forms is
celebrated, with stages set at various places in Hampi. Other attractions are
the colourful procession by the folk artistes, dressed in their traditional
attire, illumination of the rocky terrain and the fireworks. 

Kalidas festival 
Place: Nagpur 
Date:
The Festival endeavours to bring back memories of the golden period of the
Vidarbha region. It was here that Mahakavi Kalidas penned some of his
greatest literary works, Kumaarasambhava, Meghaduuta, Ritusamhaara,
etc. 

The Kalidas festival is organized in association with the District Collectorate

Office of Nagpur & features some of the greatest exponents of music, dance
and drama from all over the country. It is held to showcase Nagpur, the
Orange City, Maharashtra's second capital. 

Contact 
MTDC Regional Office 
Ph: 0712 - 2533325 
Fax: 0712 - 2560680 

Kalinga Mahotsav 
Place: Peace Pagoda at Dhauli 
Date: February
A festival of Martial Dances at Dhauli, this festival commemorates the victory
of Peace over War where renowned dancers perform harmonising the vigour
of martial arts with sublime dance forms with their swords, spears and
shields. This annual thrilling display of dances and music takes place at the
foothill of the famous Peace Pagoda at Dhauli, where Emperor Ashoka is
believed to have fought the last battle before his metamorphosis into an
apostle of nonviolence and peace. 
Source: http://www.orissatourism.org/orissa-fairs-festivals/orissa-tourist-
festivals.html 

Contact 
Dept. of Tourism 
Paryatan Bhawan 
Museum Campus 
Bhubaneswr - 751 014 
Ph: (674) 2432177 
email: ortour@orissatourism.gov.in 

Kathak Mahotsav 
Place: Khamani Auditoriumm, New Delhi 
Date: February
Kathak Mahotsav is an annual festival held by Kathak Kendra. (instituted in
memory of Maharaj Kalka and Maharaj Bindadin of Lucknow). Kathak Kendra
is a unit of the autonomous Sangeet Natak Akademi - National Academy of
music and dance. 

Contact 
Kathak Kendra 
Bhawalpur House 
Bhagwandas Road 
New Delhi 110001 
Ph: (011) - 23388681 
Fax: (011) - 23387182 

Kathak Utsav 
Place: Shri Ram Centre, Delhi 
Date: December
Organised by Kathak Kendra 
Source: http://delhitourism.nic.in/events.aspx 

Khajuraho Dance Festival 

Place: Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh 
Date: February / March

Held every year from 25th February to 2nd March, Khajuraho Dance Festival
takes place at the open-air auditorium in front of the Chitragupta Temple
dedicated to the Sun God and the Vishwanatha Temple dedicated to Lord
Shiva. They are situated in the Western Group of temples, which is the
largest, well maintained and most easily accessible temple group of
Khajuraho. Started regularly since 2002, this weeklong festival has already
become legendary with its outlandish classical dance performances
presented in a dreamlike setting of splendidly illuminated temples.
Khajuraho temples present sculptures depicting various skills and arts of
courtly love including dance and music in stone and what venue can be more
befitting to hold the cultural festival highlighting the various classical dances
of India!

Some of the best artists and performers that have marked themselves in
their fields come from the various states of India to participate in the festival
and the performances including some of the best known dance styles such as
the intricate footwork of Kathak, highly stylized and sophisticated
Bharathanatyam, soft lyrical temple dance of Odissi, the dance dramas of
Kuchipudi, Manipuri, the dance of rare and ancient civilization and Kathakali
stage fights with elaborate masks. Recently, modern Indian dances have also
found their place in the Khajuraho Dance festival. Along with the dance
performances one can also see a number of craftsmen trading off their
indigenous arts and crafts to the visitors. 
Source: http://www.khajuraho.org.uk/khajuraho-dance-festival.html

Contact 
M P Sahitya Kala Parishad 
Banganga Road 
Bhopal 462 003 
Ph / fax: (0755) - 553782 
e-mail: mail@mptourism.com 

Konark Dance Festival 

Place: Konark Natya Mandap, Arka Vihar, Konark 
Date: 19th to 23rd February every year

The Konark dance festival is organized by eminent Odissi guru Gangadhar

Pradhan's Orissa Dance Academy in association with the Eastern Zonal Cultural
Centre, Kolkata at Konark Natya Mandap in Konark. As the sun sets, the open air
auditorium gains life in the form of musical beats and rhythmic movements under
the star lit sky. With the poem in stone as the backdrop, the festival proves to be
a true cultural feast. A celebration of Odissi, Bharathnatyam, Manipuri, Kathak
and Chau Dances; the festival truly comes as a lavish feast for the eyes and ears.
The sound of Ghungroo bells, flute and Pakhauj add on to the festive mood.

A crafts mela is also put up during the Konark Dance festival. Serving a wide
array of delectable cuisines and a variety of handicrafts, this mela adds more fun
to the festival thus making it a perfect venue for a family get together on a
holiday or a joyous experience to the tourists. 
Source: http://www.orissatourism.org/orissa-fairs-festivals/konark-dance-
festival.html

Contact 
Dept. of Tourism, Govt. of Orissa 
Paryatan Bhawan 
Museum Campus 
Bhubaneswar - 751014 
Ph: (674) 2432177 
email: ortour@orissatourism.gov.in 
www.konarknatyamandap.org 

Kutiyattam Festival 
Place: Ammanur Chakyar Madhom, Irinjalakuda, Kerala 
Date: January

Since 1988, the annual Kutiyattam Mahotsavam (12 days) of Ammannur Chachu
Chakyar Smaraka Gurukulam is held at Natanakairali and has played an
important role in moulding a new generation of actors in the Kutiyattam Theatre
Tradition. The oldest surviving classical Sanskrit theatre tradition of India,
Kutiyattam, has a unique representation of Sanskrit plays and a highly stylized
and complex theatre language. Recently UNESCO declared Kutiyattam as a
“Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity”. Irinjalakuda has
been the home of the Ammannur Chakyars since several centuries. 
Source: http://home.planet.nl/~pesch082/IEaceA/html/indoart_KutiyattamFestiv
al06.html

Contact 
Ammannur Chachu Chakyar SmarakaGurukulam 
Ammannur Chakyar Madhom 
Irinjalakuda, Thrissur 
Kerala 680 121 
e-mail: venuji@satyam.net.in 

Lai Haroba
Lai Haroba is the most important pre-Hindu ritual festival of Manipur. Lai
Haroba means entertainment of the gods. There are nearly 400 shrines of
different animistic deities and this festival, held in their honor, lasts from a
week to a fortnight each spring with the advent of monsoons. The rituals of
the Lai Haroba are conducted by the Maibis, priestess-oracles. Maibis are
chosen by fate when they exhibit certain psychic signs and fall into trances.
Though they may be men or women, they dress as women when they
become Maibis. They are then trained in the dances and rituals of the Lai
Haroba Festival and learn to prophesy the future through trances. Each
evening of this festival begins with several hours of ritual dances by the
Maibis, followed by dances offered by other members of the Meitei or
Manipuri community. 
Source: http://www.sharonlowen.com/manipuri.htm 

Mamallapuram Dance Festival 

Place: Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram), near Chennai, Tamilnadu 
Date: Dec, Jan, Feb - Every Saturday
This festival is held every year during Dec-Jan in Mamallapuram, Tamil
Nadu, organised by Department of Tourism, Govt. of Tamilnadu.
Mamallapuram, once the ancient port of the Pallavas is renowned for Pallava
culture and art. Exponents of Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathak, Odissi,
Mohini Attam and Kathakali perform against the magnificent backdrop of the
Pallava rock sculptures. Apart from the classical performances, one can also
see artists performing numerous folk dances. 

Contact 
Dept. of Tourism, Govt. of Tamilnadu 
Tourism Complex, Wallajah Road 
Near Kalaivanar Arangam 
Chennai 600002 
Ph: (044) - 25383333 / 25389857 / 25360294 
Fax: (044) - 25381567 
e-mail: ttdc@md3.vsnl.net.in 

Modhera Dance Festival 

Place: Sun Temple, Modhera, Gujarat 
Date: January
The Sun Temple is the site of an annual festival of Indian classical dances
organized by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat. 

Contact 
Dept. of Youth Services & Cultural Activities 
Govt. of Gujarat, Block No.11 
3rd Floor, Old Sachivalay 
Gandhinagar 382010 
Ph: (02712) - 21897 / 23078 / 21372 

Natyanjali Dance Festival 

Place: Chidambaram, Tamilnadu 
Date: February 4th week - March 1st week

Starts from the day of Mahashivaratri, for 5 days. Chidambaram is situated

along the coast of the Bay of Bengal, 75 kms south of Pondicherry. Lord
Nataraja, according to the Hindu mythology is a cosmic dancer. He is called
the Lord of dances. This is an opportunity for all dancers, from all India, to
perform and to pay their tribute to Lord Nataraja.The Natyanjali festival,
which brings all the prominent dancers of India, together on the same
platform, opens on the auspicious occasion of Mahasivaratri, in the month of
February. It is performed at the 'Prakara' of the temple, and the dancers, full
of intense bliss and devotion, with their evocative abhinaya, offer their dance
to the great divinity, Lord Nataraja.

The festival is jointly organised by The Department of Tourism, Government

of Tamil Nadu, The Ministry Of Tourism, Government of India and The
Natyanjali Trust, Chidambaram. It is designed to promote a universal
message of 'Unity in Diversity' conveyed in the universal language of music
and dance. 
Source: http://www.tamilnadu-tourism.com/tamilnadu-festivals/natyanjali-
dance-festival.html

Contact 
Natyanjali Trust 
Sambandam A, Nagasamy R 
57, Car St., Chidambaram 
Tamilnadu 608001 
Ph: (04144) - 22534 
Fax: (04144) - 22265 
New Festival 
Place: Chennai 
Date: December
The Park's New Festival is hosted by Prakriti Foundation (started in 2007). A
five day festival held in the first week of December in Chennai, showcases
new and emerging work in the field of dance, music and theatre for Chennai
audience. Earlier Prakriti Foundation & Arngham Trust co-hosted the Other
Festival. This festival was held for 9 years from 1998- 2006. 
www.prakritifoundation.com ; www.theparksnewfestival.com 

Nishagandhi Festival 
Place: Nishagandhi Open Air Auditorium, Kanakakunnu Palace grounds,
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 
Date: January
It includes a food festival and craft mela on the adjoining Sooryakanthi
grounds. 
In 2005, the festival was held in April 
In 2007 & 2008, it was held from Jan 20-26 

Contact 
Dept. of Tourism 
Govt. of Kerala, Parkview 
Thiruvananthapuram 695033 
Ph: (0471) - 2321132 
e-mail: deptour@vsnl.com / info@keralatourism.org 

Pachmarhi Festival 
Place: Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 
Date: November / December
The annual six-day Pachmarhi Festival is organized at Pachmarhi, the
Verdant Queen of Satpura featuring cultural programmes, art performances
and quisine. Stalls are put up for display and sale of the products of skilled
artisans sponsored by the Handloom and Handicrafts Development
Corporation and food stalls offer a variety of delicacies including Indori Chat,
ice creams, cold drinks, South Indian dishes and Chinese food. The display
and sale of carpets, saris, dress material, durries, bamboo crafts and
woolens produced by self help groups besides bari, papad, pickles, sauces
etc would be added attraction. Cultural evenings are organized every day
during the festival featuring artists of national and international repute. 

Contact 
M P State Tourism Devt. Corpn. Ltd. 
Gangotri, 4th Floor 
T T Nagar, Bhopal 462003 
Ph: (0755) - 554340 / 554341 / 554342g 

Pattadakal Dance Festival - Chalukya Utsav 

Place: Pattadakal, North Karnataka 
Date: January / February
Every year during the first quarter (January or February) Pattadakal
celebrates the annual dance festival also called the Chalukya Utsava. Apart
from Pattadakal the venues includes the nearby ancient sites Badami and
Aihole too. This three days extravaganza of dance and music attracts hordes
of art lovers. The majestic temple backdrops and the performance by
renowned artists brings alive the magic of the bygone era. 
Source: http://www.pattadakal.com 

Contact 
Dept. of Tourism 
Govt. of Karnataka 
F Block, 1st Floor 
K G Road 
Bangalore 560009 
Ph: (080) - 2211186 / 2215489 

Puri Beach Festival 

Place: Puri, Orissa 
Date: November

The Puri Beach Festival is organised by Hotel & Restaurant Association of

Orissa (HRAO) in November. The Festival showcases a number of attractive
events to attract large number of tourists from far and near.

The 2004 festival (the 10th year) took place from 23rd to 27th November
2004. 
Source: http://www.orissatourism.gov.in/archiveshow.asp 

Contact 
Dept. of Tourism 
Paryatan Bhawan 
Museum Campus 
Bhubaneswr - 751 014 
Ph: (674) 2432177 
email: ortour@orissatourism.gov.in 

Rajgir Mahotsav 
Place: Rajgir, Bihar 
Date: October
Department of Tourism, Bihar holds a colourful festival of dance and music,
Rajgir Mahotsav at Rajgir in Bihar. 

Contact 
Dept.of Tourism 
Govt. of Bihar 
Ph: (0612) - 224531 
Fax: (0612) - 236218 
Sharadotsav 
Place: Bangalore (Ravindra Kalakshetra) 
Date:
Sharadotsav, the annual Bharatanatyam festival is conducted by Sri
Guruvayurappan Bhajan Samaj Trust featuring various artistes of national
and international repute. Dancer Ranjani Ganesan organizes the festival. 

Contact 
"Padam Dance Company" 
# 101, The Ranes, 195, 7th Road 
Khar (W), Mumbai 400052 
Ph: (022) - 26482329 / 65765431 
e-mail: ranjani_ramesh2004@yahoo.comn 

Shreekshetra Utsav (The Puri Festival) 

Place: Puri, Orissa 
Date:
Puri represents the rich traditions and culture of its people manifested in its
various festivals celebrated throughout the year. The two weeks long
extravaganza of art and culture Shreekshetra Utsav is an authentic showcase
of everything that's Orissa, offering handloom, cuisine, dance, music and its
famed sand art. 
Source: http://www.orissatourism.org/orissa-fairs-festivals/orissa-tourist-
festivals.html 

Contact 
Dept. of Tourism 
Paryatan Bhawan 
Museum Campus 
Bhubaneswr - 751 014 
Ph: (674) 2432177 
email: ortour@orissatourism.gov.in 

Soorya classical music and dance festival 

Place: Thiruvananthapuram 
Date: 1st to 10th of October

The Soorya classical music and dance festival is conducted for ten days
every year in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala.It starts from 1st
October and concludes on the 10th of October. The festival is organized by
Soorya Stage and Film Society, one of the largest cultural societies in Asia.
Founded by Soorya Krishnamoorthy, the society organises many programs
including Dance and Music festivals, film festivals, theatre, painting,
photography, lectures and talks, sound and light shows etc.

The Dance and Music festival presents different forms of dance like Kathak,
Odissi, Manipuri, Bharathanatyam, Kathakali, Kuchipudi and Mohiniyattam as
well as classical music renditions, instrumental music, jugal bandhis, etc by
popular artists. Renowned dancers and musicians from all over India
participate in this festival. Dancers such as Padma Subramaniam, Alarmel
Valli, Chitra Viswesvaran, Lakshmi Gopalaswami, Rajendra-Nirupama and
musicians such as Ustads Allah Rakha, Amjad Ali Khan, Bismillah Khan, Zakir
Husain, Balamuralikrishna, Bhimsen Joshi are a few among the famous
artistes who have performed here.

Another dance and music festival 'Parampara' is also held by Soorya in

November every year to spot young talents. This festival is also held in
Thiruvananthapuram, where artists pay tribute to their Gurus. 
Source: http://www.malayalammusic.com/php/showNews.php?
newsid=61&linkid=4

Contact 
Soorya Stage and Film Society 
Chaitanya, Thycaud 
Thiruvananthapuram 695014 
Ph: (0471) - 2323536 
Fax: (0471) - 2323558 
e-mail: soorya@asianetindia.com / sooryakrishnamoorthy@hotmail.com 

Vasantahabba 
Place: Hessaraghatta, Bangalore Rural District, Karnataka 
Date: first Saturday of February, from dusk to dawn

Vasantahabba (Spring Festival) is an all-night festival of dance and music

organized by Nrityagram every year.

Thirteen years after the first Vasantahabba, it is now considered the

'Woodstock' of classical dance and music in India. Living legends and leading
artists congregate together, under one sky, to make Vasantahabba what it is
- an unmissable treat!

The history of Vasantahabba is remarkable. From an audience of 3,000 in

1990, there were over 40,000 in 2003! The festival has been covered on the
web and on television networks from around the world. And millions have
witnessed the event LIVE on Doordarshan, the public broadcasting station of
India. 
Entry to Vasantahabba is FREE.

Past performers include Dr. Chitti Babu, Louis Banks, Beliappa & Dollu
Kunita, Dr. B. Bhanumati, Pt. Vishwamohan Bhatt, Pt. Hari Prasad Chaurasia,
Shri Kadri Gopalnath, Gundecha Brothers, Ustad Zakir Hussain, Dr.
Doraiswamy Iyengar, Pt. Jasraj, Pt. Bhimsen Joshi, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan,
Ganesh Kumaresh, Shankar Mahadevan, Guru Kelucharan Mahapatra, , Pt.
Birju Maharaj, Aditi Mangaldas, Rajan Sajan Misra, Shubha Mudgal, Taufiq
Qureshi, Smt. Malini Rajurkar, Guru Jayaram & Vanashree Rao, Raja-Radha
Reddy, Smt. Veena Sahasrebuddhe, Leela Samson, Malavika Sarukkai,
Aruna Sayeeram, Shashank, Pt. Shiv Kumar Sharma, Daksha Sheth, Smt.
Bharati Shivaji, Talvin Singh, Ranjabati Sircar, Sivamani, Dr. L.
 Subramaniam, Begum Parveen Sultana, Alarmel Valli, Pt. Vikku Vinayakram,
Nasir & Nazir Warsi, amongst others. 
Source: http://www.nrityagram.org/passion/habba/habba.htm 

Contact 
Nrityagram 
Hessaraghatta 
Bangalore Rural District 
Karnataka 5600088 
Ph: (080) - 8466313 / 8466314 
e-mail: nrityagram@vsnl.com 

I am not sure if the festivals mentioned below are held on an annual basis
Bharatendu Natya Utsav (Sahitya Kala Parishad) 
Place: Shri Ram Centre, Delhi 
Date: February 
Source: http://delhitourism.nic.in/events.aspx 

Daman Festival
The West Zone Cultural Centre, Udaipur and District Administration Daman
organized the festival from December 19 to 21, 2007 at Daman. The NEZCC
participated in the festival by sending a Manipuri Raas team consisting of 16
members from Manipur. 
Source: http://www.nezccindia.org/Annual%20Report.asp 

Bhagyachandra National Festival

A four day Bhagyachandra National Festival was organized by North East
Zone Cultural Centre, Dimapur, Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, Kolkata and
Department of Art & Culture, Government of Manipur from November 27 to
30, 2007 at Imphal Manipur. 
Source: http://www.nezccindia.org/Annual%20Report.asp 

Folk Dance & Music Festival 

Place: Shakuntala Theatre, Pragti Maidan 
Date: November
Organised by Indian Trade Promotion Organisation 
Source: http://delhitourism.nic.in/events.aspx 

Folk dance Festival 

Place: Sambalpur, Orisssa 
Date: January
Contact 
Dept. of Tourism 
Paryatan Bhawan 
Museum Campus 
Bhubaneswr - 751 014 
Ph: (674) 2432177 
email: ortour@orissatourism.gov.in 

Folk songs and dance festival of Sikkim

A one day Folk Songs & Dance Festival was organized by North East Zone
Cultural Centre, Dimapur and Cultural Affairs & Heritage Department,
Government of Sikkim at Pakyong, Sikkim on July 7, 2007. Altogether 195
artistes from different parts of the State representing different
communities/tribes of Sikkim participated in the festival. The presentation of
folk songs and dances by the artistes in full traditional attire during the
programme was a composite display of the beautiful culture of Sikkim. 
Source: http://www.nezccindia.org/Annual%20Report.asp 

Lokrang - National folk dance festival 

2007 
The festival was organized by WZCC, Udaipur & Jawahar Kala Kendra at
Jawahar Kala Kendra, Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg, Jaipur on October 27 & 28,
2007. The NEZCC participated in the festival by sending Lai Haraoba, Pung
Cholom & Dhol Cholom and Hazagiri consisting of 20 and 15 member
respectively from Manipur and Tripura.
2008 
The NEZCC participated in this prestigious festival by organizing folk dance
troupes from the State of Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland
and Sikkim. The troupes from Northeastern States presented colourful and
vibrant traditional art forms of the region at different venues. The Khampti
tribe from Arunachal Pradesh presented the Kaa - Kong Tokai (Cock fight)
dance, and the Hajong tribe of Meghalaya presented a folk song and dance,
the Mizoram troupe presents the “Sarlamkai/Solakia” “warrior” dance and
the Mungyanta (Harvest dance) was performed by the women folk from
Nagaland. The Maruni dance the oldest and most popular dance of the
Nepalese from Sikkimwas also performed. Altogether 75 artistes participated
in the event. 
Source: http://www.nezccindia.org/Annual%20Report.asp 

Manipur Raas Festival

The festival was organized by Sree Sree Radha Madab Sanskriti Samanwaya
Committee, Agartala from November 21 to 25, 2007 at Agartala, Tripura.
The NEZCC (The North East Zone Cultural Centre) Co-sponsored the
programme. 
Source: http://www.nezccindia.org/Annual%20Report.asp 

National Classical Dance festival

A two day National Classical Dance festival was organized by the North East
Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC), Dimapur in collaboration with Department of
Information, Cultural Affairs & Tourism, Government of Tripura on August 27
& 28, 2007 at Rabindra Shatabarshiki Bhawan, Agartala. The Classical dance
festival was organized with the view to promote the Classical art forms in
North East States and to provide opportunity to the artistes from the region.
The remarkable classical dance participated from EZCC, Kokata, SCZCC,
Nagur, Manipur, Assam and Tripura. 
Source: http://www.nezccindia.org/Annual%20Report.asp 

North East Folk dance festival

2007 
A one day North East Folk dance festival was organized by NEZCC in
collaboration with the Department of Art & Culture, Government of
Meghalaya on December 06, 2007 at New Nongstoin, Meghalaya. The
following folk troupes from Manipur, Tripura, Nagaland and Meghalaya
performed in the festival viz: Pungcholom, Lai Haraoba and Thang - ta from
Manipur, Hozagiri dance from Tripura, Chicken dance was presented by
Chakhesang Zuve Cultural Troupe, Dimapur, Nagaland and Lepcha dance,
Sikkim besides other local troupes from Meghalaya who presented the Drum
and Lahoo dance.

2008 
A two day North East Folk Dance Festival was organized by North East Zone
Cultural Centre in collaboration with Department of Art & Culture,
Government of Arunachal Pradesh on January 14 & 15, 2008 at Parasuram
Kund, Arunachal Pradesh. 
Source: http://www.nezccindia.org/Annual%20Report.asp 

Prakriti - A festival of tribal arts

The NEZCC participated in the three – day Festival of Tribal Arts,
“PRAKRITI”, organized by the Ministries of Culture and Tribal Affairs in
association with the Zonal Cultural Centres and Sangeet Natak Akademi from
December 5 to 7, 2007 at New Delhi. The NEZCC participated in the festival
alongwith three cultural troupes from the Northeastern States consisting of
18 members each from the State of Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and
Nagaland and presented the Lion & Peacock dance, Lahoo dance and
Khupielili dance. 
Source: http://www.nezccindia.org/Annual%20Report.asp 

Shipgram Utsav
The Shilpgram Utsav was organized by West Zone Cultural Centre, Udaipur
from December 21 to 30, 2007 at Shilpgram, Udaipur. The NEZCC
participated in the Utsav by sending the following 5 folk dance troupes -
Maibi Laichung Jagoi, Manipur, Singhi Chham, Dimasa Kachari, Nagaland,
Bagrumba & Bordoishikla, Assam, Dhol Dholok Cholom, Manipur. 
Source: http://www.nezccindia.org/Annual%20Report.asp 
Festivals – Contacts

Dear Readers,

This page is dedicated to informing you all about various dance festivals that happen
across India. I shall update information as and when I get it. Please keep checking for
updates. I shall try to suggest a time frame to apply for the festivals and the
requirements. If any of you have any information, kindly share.

 Natyaanjali Festival

For Natyaanjali Festival one has to apply atleast 6 months before (especially Chidambaram and
Thanjavur) i.e. sometime during Sept-Oct, with resume, pics. Recommended- cd/dvd of
performance, paper clippings written about you, letter from guru etc. Festival is usually in Feb-Mar
every year.

Chidambaram:   04144-222732.  Contact :, Live Music orchestra mandatory, accommodation and

food provided, other facilities at request and payment.

Thanjavur : Contact Mr.S.Muthukumar

Secretary
Brahan Natyanjali Foundation
ahan Natyanjali Foundation, 098424-55765, 94865 76691
04362 – 291569, E-mail : brahannatyanjali2007@rediffmail.com , bnfoundation@rediffmail.com t

Time duration of performance- Roughly 15-20minutes.

Live Music orchestra mandatory, accommodation and food provided, other facilities at request and
payment.

 Kumbakonam: Contact Mr. Sri. K.N. Rajagopalan 9940828863,0435 -2442396,E-

mail- natyanjalikmu@yahoo.co.in

Time duration of performance- Roughly 15-20minutes.

Can use Cds recordings, accommodation and food provided, other facilities at request and
payment.

Thirunallar & Nagapattanam : Contact Kannan atkannanveena@hotmail.com

Time duration of performance- Roughly 30 minutes at each temple.

Can use Cds recordings, accomodation and food provided, other facilities at request and payment.

Ekmara Festival Orissa

 One has to apply atleast 6 months before with resume, pics. Recommended- cd/dvd of
performance, paper clippings written about you, letter from guru etc.

Contact : Shyam Hari Chakra at shyamhari@yahoo.com

This festival happens around May, travel expenses are refunded, and compensation is given to
dancers.

APPLICATION FOR RUKMINI DEVI ARUNDALE DANCE FESTIVAL 2010(APRIL 3& 4TH)
DEAD LINE FOR THE APPLICATION IS 31ST AUG 2009. 

If you want to apply you can send your complete application with your bio data along with CD and
press clippings of your recent works, good photo graphs (4-6) in an another CD. Classical,
Contemporary & Folk dance are considered. We do get quite a few CDs and the committee are
only likely to see for maximum 10 min works. Then successful individual artist & group are
contacted by the programme co-ordinator. Unfortunately we can’t return anything and
unsuccessful groups/individual don’t even get a reply. (sorry). Dear artiste, we have a slot in the
festival for a solo, duet or a group classical and contemporary performance of 20 & 30 minutes
including the announcements for which we are paying a small token of Rs. 2000 for the solo, duet
and Rs. 3000 for the group. If you are interested then please inform us as quickly as possible so
that suitable arrangements can be made on time.

N.B.-All participants (out station) will arrange their journey (to & fro) & accommodation (in
kolkata) by their own

Mr Gaurab Roy & Ms Madhuri Sarkar (Coordinators)

Phone: /09742841032/ 0091-98305 66067/0091-098317 12711
send at
GARIA AJANTA KALA SANGAM
C/O MR SIDDHARTHA CHATTERJEE
1804 Garia place,Devradha apartment,ground floor,block 1
kolkata700084
westbengal
india
ajantakalasangam@ymail.com
saarbaniajanta@gmail.com
(*above information is from www.narthaki.com)

Madhuja centre for performing arts presents kathak festival after every 4 months.Interested
kathak gurus(lucknow gharana) can apply with solo dance cd(30 mins )and cv to the
committee.We r also planning to hold workshops along with performances.WE r providing with free
train fare(slp-class),food and lodging,token of the festival along with 2 accompanists.Seperate
renumeration for workshops.Interested kathak gurus (lucknow gharana) can apply at the following
address-
Dilip Ghosh
Deepanjali Appartment,1st floor
Flat No 1F,39,Baguihati
First Lane,kolkata-700028
Keep contact with Suparna Basu via mail(suparnabasu0@gmail.com) (*thru www.narthaki.com)

Mohini Festival

Mohini Festival 2009, a five day cultural feast featuring workshops, lecture demonstrations and
performances on Mohiniyattam and Odissi will be held from 8th April to 12th April 2009 at Vyloppilli
Samskrithi Bhavan. The festival is jointly organised by Vyloppilli Samskrithi Bhavan – Govt of
Kerala, Sangeet Natak Akademi – Govt. of India and Natyaveda Centre for Performing Arts.

contact 9447470783 (secretary), 9947138204 (director) or 9605604300 (convener) or mail

at natyaveda@aol.in 

(*above information is from www.bharatamonline.com )

 KONARK FESTIVAL

Konark Dance and Music Festival, a mega carnival of Music and Dance organised by Konark Natya
Mandap is held every year between 19th and 21st February. Founded by Padmashree Guru
Gangadhar Pradhan, the festival attracts the best talents from the region to be showcased in the
three day festival.

The Konar Dance and Music Festival invites artists to submit applications for their performances at
the festival in February 2010 which would the silver jubilee of the festival and the grandeur is
expected to be bigger than before.
The interested applicants may apply before 15th August 2009 with following documents for
consideration for participation in International Konark Dance & Music Festival 2010.

1. Profile
2. Photographs
3. performance DVD/CD
4. Press clipping
The applications are to be sent to:  konarknatyamandap@yahoo.com
KONARK NATYA MANDAP
Arka Vihar, Konark – 752111,
Puri, Orissa, India
Mobile :+91 9437308022, 9937008022
Web: www.konarknatyamandap.org

Additonally, Contact : Mr. Shibu atshibu_culture@yahoo.com, konarknatyamandap@yahoo.com

mobile : 9437308022, 9937008022

One has to apply atleast 6 months before with resume, pics. Recommended- cd/dvd of
performance, paper clippings written about you, letter from guru etc. This festival happens during
Feb every year.

 KAL KE KALAKAAR

This is one of the oldest dance festivals in India. This festival gives out “Singar Mani” awards to
deserving dancers.

Contact:

TRIDHARA NATIONAL DANCE FESTIVAL, BHUBANESWAR

BHUBANESWAR-BASED TRIDHARA ODISSI DANCE INSTITUTE THAT HOSTS THE TRIDHARA

ANNUAL NATIONAL DANCE FESTIVAL AT RABINDRA MANDAP IN BHUBANESWAR ON JUNE 27, 28
& 29 THIS YEAR INVITES APPLICATIONS FROM ARTISTES AND INSTITUTIONS FOR
PARTICIPATION IN THE FESTIVAL. CONTACT :tridhara.debadhara@gmail.com

VYSAKHI NRUTYOTSAV (Sept-Oct every year) Gives “NatyaSri” titles.

CONTACT: Vikram Goud at vikram_natyam@yahoo.com or 9848137445 with your photographs,

resume and all the details by August.

NRI Sangeeth  Nrithyotsav – 2010”-NAATYA SARADHI Puraskars  

Nataraj Music & Dance Academy”(Member:International Dance Council,UNESCO) an esteemed

organization found by the undersigned with a motto to serve the Indian Society through culture,
imparts education to students in various areas (viz) Kuchipudi, Bharatanatyam, Indian Folk, Indian
Classical Music and instrumental Music since 10 years. The Academy is also known for organizing
 Dance festivals in various Indian Classical Dance forms involving eminent dancers from all over
world to propagate the Indian ethos to.

 Now NMDA will be hosting “NRI Sangeeth  Nrithyotsav – 2010″ on 22nd & 23rd in the month of
December, 2010. We invite Applications from Eminent NRI & FOREIGNER dancers & Musicians
from all over the World . The Festival will be covered exhaustively by Print and Electronic media.

We offer NAATYA SARADHI / SAANGEETH SARADHI Puraskars along with decent Food,
Accommodation and local transport only.

Time slot: 15 – 30 mts (Inclusive of announcements and Title presentation details)

Age group: 20yrs and above
Dance styles: Kuchipudi,Odissi, Kathakali, Bharathanatyam, Mohiniattam, Manipuri, Sattriya,
Chhau, Kathak.
dates: 22nd & 230rdDecember, 2010.

Please send your applications with good photographs, Bio-data and video cd or youtube link .
Both live and recorded music allowed.
Last date for applications: 3rd, December 2010

Adress;

NATARAJ MUSIC & DANCE ACADEMY.Regd

In the service of Indian Arts & Culture

Member:Internationl Dance Council,UNESCO

#50-95-4/7, Seethammadara, Visakhapatnam-530013, AP.India

CellNo:098481 37445, Email: vikram _natyam@ Yahoo.com,

www.naatyam.net

INTERNATIONAL DANCE DAY PURASKARS-2011

INTERNATIONAL DANCE DAY PURASKARS-2011

Nataraj Music and Dance Academy (Member: International Dance Council,

UNESCO) is rendering lot of service to the field of Indian Dance and Music since 10 years. 
Now, the academy intends to propagate Indian Classical Dance and Music among masses and
spread the various art forms to grass-roots.           

So, in this connection the academy wishes to celebrate International Dance Day at

Visakhapatnam on April 29, 2011. The Guru’s having 10 years experience in their respective
classical dance fields and below 40 years of age shall be honoured with “International
Dance Day Puruskar-2011” on the day of celebrations.

            The selected Gurus shall demonstrate to create awareness towards classical dance
forms among masses at Visakhapatnam on the same day.

            The intending Gurus are requested to send their profiles on or before 30th March, 2011
to the address mentioned below.

            Note: The decision of the selection committee is final. The Organisation shall provide
only Food & Accommodation for staying (dormitory).

Nataraj Music & Dance Academy

50-95-4/7.A.S.R.Nagar,

Seethammadhara

Visakhapatnam-530013,

Andhrapradesh,India.

Email : Vikram_natyam@yahoo.com,

www.naatym.net.

Cell no;098481 37445

1. VYSAHKI NRITHYOTSAV says:

17/06/2008 at 16:50

VYSAKHI NRITHYOTSAV

ALL INDIA CLASSICAL DANCE FESTIVAL-2010

About the Institute:

Our, institution, Nataraj Music and Dance Academy (Member, World Dance Council, UNESCO.)

represents the future for Dance and Drama in Visakhapatnam . The Academy is dedicated

towards preserving and promoting India’s Vibrant Classical dance forms such as Kuchupudi and

Bharatnatyam. The academy also promotes Indian Classical Music& classical dance. The

institution not only trains the students for Music, Dance and Drama, but also conducts mega

events like Dance Festivals, Workshops, Seminars, Dance recitals by various exponents in the

various fields.
About the Festival

TEMPLE IN PROXIMITY TO BEACH (VlSAKHA BEACH) AND THE DEITY BEING VlSAKESWARA

AND THE DENIZENS AT VlZAG (VlSAKHAPURI) USED TO REVER WITH LOT OF GAIETY AND IN

A VISAKHA & VISAKHESWARA ARE INSEPARABLE AND GOT A VALATION. THERE USED IO BE A

NON-PAREIL MANNER. DUE TO GEOGRAPHICAL CHANGES & AQUATIC EROSION – THE TEMPLE

HAS BEEN INUNDATED. VlZAG IS DEVIVED FROM Vl SAKE! ESWARA IN IE RMS Ol NOOLOGY.

DWELLING ON ANOTHER NON AMBIGUOUS FEATURE-VERY NEAR TO VlZAG RAIL S 1AITON

ALSO, THE DURGAMA IS PERFECTLY KNOWN AS VlSAKHI-MA BY THE LOCALS WITH AN

UNDULATORY FEEL AND FERVOUR THIS WORD VAISAKHI IS ALSO A “PARONYM” AND SO

CLOSE TO VlSAKHAPURI & VlSAKHl THE VAISAKHI DANCE FESTIVALS, AB-INTRA; IS WITH

DEVOTION AND IN CONSONANCE OF VAISAKHESWARA (THE COSMOS). COPIOUS MUDRAS

WITH PLENTITUDE. AB-ANTE, TO PROPAGATE INDIAN EBULLIENT ETHOS TO EVERY NOOK,

NATARAJ MUSIC & DANCE ACADEMY IS STRIVING TO BRING VlSAKHA ON THE CANDID MAP

WITH THE SUCCOR OF MANY ELITE – VIZAGITES. TO ELEVATE ALL LAUDATION IN DANCES.

UNDER ONE ROOF SINCE 2007

Previous Dance Festivals:

The institution had conceived an Idea that National Dance festivals should also be a part of

Visakhapatnam ’s culture and heritage. So, with this idea we have conducted successfully

Vysakhi Nrityostsavs (All India Dance competition) 2008 and 2009. The great exponents like

Padmashri Dharsana Javeri, (Manipuri), Padmashri Dr. Sobha Naidu (Kuchupudi). Smt. Manju

Bhargavi (Kuchupudi), Guru Bichindranad Swain(Odissi), Guru Smt. Kshemavathi

(Mohiniattam), Leena Malakar (kathak). Really, the festivals were highly successful and added

glory to the cultural heritage of Visakhapatnam . The various Gurus were decorated and

awarded with NATYASHRI title as a part of the festival celebrations.

Present Festival

This year also, NMDA is hosting the “Vysakhi Nrithyotsav – All India Classical Dance Festival –

2010″ with 9 Indian classical dance forms from all over WORLD. ON 6th-10 sept, 2010.

Who participate in the Festival , We HONOUR with NATYASRI TITLE

Kuchipudi ,Bharatanatyam,Chhau,Kathak,Kathakali,,Odissi,Manipuri,Sattriya,Mohini Attam,

Last Date :21st July,2010.

Email: vikram_natyam@yahoo.com.CELL NO. -098481 37445@ Bathina Vikram Goud.

Adress;

NATARAJ MUSIC & DANCE ACADEMY

50-95-4/7,A.S.R.NAGAR

SEEHAMMADHARA,VISAKHAPATNAM-530013,A.P.
Classical Dance in India : Odissi
General Knowledge Category: Art & Culture, Dance of India

 
Odissi classical Indian Dance

Odissi is one of the famous classical Indian dances from Orissa state. Odissi is a highly inspired, passionate,
ecstatic and sensuous form of dance. Like most of the South Indian classical dances of India Odissi too had its
origin in the Devadasi tradition. The state of Orissa has a great cultural history. The rulers of this region built
magnificent temples, which became the center of art and culture. It was around these temples that Odissi, one of
India's scintillating dance-forms was born, nurtured and nourished.

Style

There are a number of characteristics of the Odissi dance.  The style may be seen as a conglomeration of
aesthetic and technical details.

One of the most characteristic features of Odissi dance is the Tribhangi.  The concept of Tribhang divides the
body into three parts, head, bust, and torso.  Any posture which deals with these three elements is called
tribhangi.  This concept has created the very characteristic poses which are more contorted than found in other
classical Indian dances.

Attire and Makeup

Like any dance form, Odissi has its own traditional costumes and jewellery. The saree is draped in a particular
fashion creating a fan-shaped structure in the front. The most common saree used by dancers is the Sambalpuri
sarees or Kotki sarees, both locally made. Only white metal jewellery is worn in Odissi, including earrings that
covers the whole ear and resembles the shape of a peacock's feather.

Music

The musical accompaniment of Odissi dance is essentially the same as the music of Orissa itself. There are
various views on how the music of the Odissi relates to the music of greater North India. It is usually considered
just another flavour of Hindustani Sangeet, however there are some who feel that Odissi should be considered a
separate classical system.

Theme & Performance

Odissi is similar to Bharatnatyam in terms of the mudras and expressions used in the performance. The
'Tribhang' or the division of the body into three parts, including head, bust and torso, is one of the highlighting
features of Odissi. The performances are replete with lores of the eighth incarnation of Vishnu and his avatar of
Lord Krishna. It is a soft dance backed by soothing lyrics. Through the performance, the Odissi artist personifies
the ambience of Orissa and the philosophy of its most popular deity - Lord Jagannath.

Famous Personalities

Some of the famous Odissi dancers who have given Odissi a new definition include Late Sanjukta Panigrahi, the
leading disciple of Guru Kelucharan Mahapatra. Other dancers are Anita Babu, Arpita Venkatesh, Chitra
Krishnamurti, Sharmila Biswas, Madhavi Mudgal, Sharmila Mukherjee, Madhumita Raut, Aloka Kanungo, Vani
Madhav and Jyoti Rout.

Odissi classical Indian Dance

Odissi is one of the famous classical Indian dances from Orissa state. Odissi is a highly inspired, passionate,
ecstatic and sensuous form of dance. Like most of the South Indian classical dances of India Odissi too had its
origin in the Devadasi tradition. The state of Orissa has a great cultural history. The rulers of this region built
magnificent temples, which became the center of art and culture. It was around these temples that Odissi, one
of India's scintillating dance-forms was born, nurtured and nourished.

Style

There are a number of characteristics of the Odissi dance.  The style may be seen as a conglomeration of
aesthetic and technical details.

One of the most characteristic features of Odissi dance is the Tribhangi.  The concept of Tribhang divides the
body into three parts, head, bust, and torso.  Any posture which deals with these three elements is called
tribhangi.  This concept has created the very characteristic poses which are more contorted than found in other
classical Indian dances.

Attire and Makeup

 Like any dance form, Odissi has its own traditional costumes and jewellery. The saree is draped in a particular
fashion creating a fan-shaped structure in the front. The most common saree used by dancers is the Sambalpuri
sarees or Kotki sarees, both locally made. Only white metal jewellery is worn in Odissi, including earrings that
covers the whole ear and resembles the shape of a peacock's feather.

Music

The musical accompaniment of Odissi dance is essentially the same as the music of Orissa itself. There are
various views on how the music of the Odissi relates to the music of greater North India. It is usually considered
just another flavour of Hindustani Sangeet, however there are some who feel that Odissi should be considered a
separate classical system.

Theme & Performance

Odissi is similar to Bharatnatyam in terms of the mudras and expressions used in the performance. The
'Tribhang' or the division of the body into three parts, including head, bust and torso, is one of the highlighting
features of Odissi. The performances are replete with lores of the eighth incarnation of Vishnu and his avatar of
Lord Krishna. It is a soft dance backed by soothing lyrics. Through the performance, the Odissi artist personifies
the ambience of Orissa and the philosophy of its most popular deity - Lord Jagannath.

Famous Personalities

Some of the famous Odissi dancers who have given Odissi a new definition include Late Sanjukta Panigrahi, the
leading disciple of Guru Kelucharan Mahapatra. Other dancers are Anita Babu, Arpita Venkatesh, Chitra
Krishnamurti, Sharmila Biswas, Madhavi Mudgal, Sharmila Mukherjee, Madhumita Raut, Aloka Kanungo, Vani
Madhav and Jyoti Rout.