image credits: https://www.instagram.com/saswatjoshi/p/DEc4WLHTZE2/
Hello, culture enthusiasts! If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing the grace of Odissi dance against a backdrop that looks like it was pulled straight out of a historical epic, then the Mukteswar Dance Festival Odisha 2025 is your must-visit event. Held in the heart of Bhubaneswar, this festival not only celebrates the rich dance form of Odisha but also the architectural marvel of the Mukteswar Temple.
A Glimpse into the History of Mukteswar Dance Festival Odisha
The Mukteswar Dance Festival, an annual celebration, showcases the exquisite Odissi dance at the Mukteswar Temple, a 10th-century marvel known for its ornate carvings and the famous arched gateway. This event brings together dancers from across the country, blending tradition with contemporary expressions, all under the starlit skies of Bhubaneswar.
When and Where to Experience the Magic of Mukteswar Dance Festival Odisha 2025
Dates: The Mukteswar Dance Festival 2025 is scheduled to be held from January 7th to 11th.
Venue: The festival takes place at the Mukteswar Temple Premises, located in the old town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. With its aesthetic beauty, this temple provides a divine setting for the performances.
Timings: Each evening, the performances begin at 6:30 PM and continue until 9:00 PM, giving you ample time to soak in the cultural extravaganza.
Witness The Dance of Divinity at the Mukteswar Dance Festival Odisha 2025
Odissi, one of India’s eight classical dance forms, is known for its lyrical and graceful movements. Here’s what you can expect from the event:
Day 1: January 7, 2025
Shiva Vandana – Abhilipsa Panda & Group from Keonjhar
Duet Performance – Nityananda Das & Bijaya Kumar Dash from Bhubaneswar
Group Odissi – Puspita Mishra & Group
Solo Odissi – Debasish Pattnaik from Karnataka
Day 2: January 8, 2025
Shiva Vandana – Sukanta Kumar Kundu & Group from Bhubaneswar
Duet Performance – Nirupama & Rajendra from Bangalore
Group Odissi – Saswat Joshi & Group from Bhubaneswar
Solo Odissi – Pompi Paul from Kolkata
Day 3: January 9, 2025
Shiva Vandana – Surendra Kumar Tripathy & Group from Bhubaneswar
Duet Performance – Divya Warrier and Vidya Pradeep from Mumbai
Group Odissi – Swayampragnya sahoo, Pragnya Nrutyayan from Bhubaneswar
Solo Odissi – Sasmita Panda from Cuttack
Day 4: January 10, 2025
Shiva Vandana – Agnimitra Behera & Group from Bhubaneswar
Duet Performance – Adithya PV and Parshwanath Upadhye from Banglore.
Group Kathak – Aditi Mangaldas & group from New Delhi
Solo Odissi – Satyaprakash Sahoo from Bhubaneswar
Day 5: January 11, 2025
Shiva Vandana – Goodly Rath & Group from Bhubaneswar
Solo Kathak – Sohini Bandopadhyay from Kolkata
Group Manipuri – Suman Sarawgi & group from Manipur
Solo Odissi – Aneesh Raghavan from Pondicherry
Why You Should Attend the Mukteswar Dance Festival
- Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Odisha’s culture. The festival is not just about dance; it’s a celebration of the state’s heritage, history, and spirituality.
- Architectural Marvel: The Mukteswar Temple itself is a historical site worth visiting. Its architecture, especially the intricate carvings, is a testament to the artistic zenith of Odisha’s medieval period.
- Community and Celebration: The festival brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate art. It’s a place where you can meet fellow dance aficionados, artists, and tourists, all gathered to revel in the beauty of Odissi.
How to Plan Your Visit
- Getting There: The temple is easily accessible from Bhubaneswar, with the nearest airport and railway station just a few kilometers away. Local transport like cabs or auto-rickshaws can take you directly to the event.
- Accommodation: Bhubaneswar offers a range of accommodations from luxury hotels to budget-friendly stays. Booking in advance, especially during festival times, is recommended.
- What to Bring: Dress comfortably for the evening weather, which can get chilly. A shawl or light jacket is advisable. Also, bring your camera because you’ll want to capture the beauty of the performances and the temple.
- Live Telecast: If you’re unable to attend in person, don’t worry! The festival will be broadcasted live on DD Bharati, ensuring you don’t miss out on the cultural feast.
A Note on Etiquette
Remember, you’re in a sacred space. Please respect the temple’s sanctity by dressing appropriately and maintaining silence when not part of the audience’s applause.
Conclusion
The Mukteswar Dance Festival 2025 is more than just an event; it’s an experience that connects you to the soul of Odisha. Whether you’re a dance lover, a culture seeker, or just someone looking to enjoy a unique evening, this festival promises to leave you with memories as enchanting as the dances themselves. So, mark your calendar, pack your bags, and come witness the magic of Odissi under the stars at Mukteswar Temple.
