36th Konark Festival concludes with splendour; sand art & classical dance steal show

The 36th edition of the Konark Festival was celebrated with grandeur at the iconic open-air auditorium near the Sun Temple in Konark. The five-day cultural extravaganza was formally inaugurated by Governor Haribabu Kambhampati, marking the beginning of an event that beautifully showcased India’s rich classical heritage.

On the concluding day, the festival mesmerised thousands of spectators from India and abroad with breathtaking Sand Art and classical dance performances. Two special sand art installations stole the spotlight— Viksit Bharat crafted by a female artist, and Atmanirbhar Bharat, created by a male artist. 

These artworks, sculpted on mounds of sand, highlighted India’s progress, resilience, and cultural identity. The thematic representations deeply moved the audience as well as the Governor, who appreciated the artistic excellence on display.

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Adding to the evening’s splendour, enthralling performances of Odissi and Kathak dance forms captivated the crowd. The dancers showcased traditional choreographies steeped in grace, rhythm and storytelling, transforming the final night into an unforgettable cultural experience.

During the event, Governor Kambhampati felicitated the participating classical dancers and sand artists for their contributions to preserving and promoting India’s artistic heritage. The festival, a major cultural attraction of Odisha, once again succeeded in bringing together diverse art forms and celebrating the state’s vibrant traditions on a global stage.

“The Konark Festival is very well organised this year. It has given people the opportunity to witness different forms of dance, whether it is Odissi, Kathak, Bharatanatyam, and other forms of dance. Along with the Konark dance festival, the Sand Art Festival is also being organised, and the Art of Sand is also being displayed along with this dance festival. This year’s dance festival attracted a large number of people. I personally think Konark Festival needs to be publicised outside Odisha,” stated Governor Haribabu Kambampati.