Odisha’s iconic Konark Dance and Sand Art Festivals begin today

The 36th Konark Festival and the 15th International Sand Art Festival will kick off on Monday at Chandrabhaga Beach, marking the annual celebration of Odisha’s classical dance heritage and world-renowned sand artistry. Both events will continue till December 5, alongside the Subhadra Shakti Mela, which is debuting this year.

CM Mohan Majhi to Inaugurate the Festival

According to reports, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi and Tourism Minister Pravati Parida will inaugurate the open-air stage. The Puri District Collector confirmed that all preparations have been completed, with final checks underway.

Konark Festival: Five Days of Classical Dance

Artists from across India will perform Odissi every evening during the five-day Konark Festival. The stage, set against the backdrop of the iconic Sun Temple, will host renowned dancers and troupes celebrating Odisha’s classical tradition.

Sand Art Festival: 243 Artists, 14 States, 5 Countries

This year’s International Sand Art Festival will showcase the work of 243 artists from 14 Indian states and five foreign countries. Exhibits will be displayed across 34 stalls.

Renowned sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik said, “Artists from national and international backgrounds are going to participate. Countries like Japan, Russia, Spain, and Sri Lanka are participating, along with 14 artists from Indian states and participants from 29 districts of Odisha.”

Subhadra Shakti Mela Makes Its Debut

For the first time, the Subhadra Shakti Mela will be organised at the venue, featuring 200 stalls. Women from Mission Shakti groups and artisans from across Odisha will showcase a wide array of handicrafts and traditional products.

Massive Preparations for Safety & Visitor Experience

Puri Collector and District Magistrate Dibya Jyoti Parida said that extensive arrangements have been made across all venues, with a special focus on safety, crowd management, and visitor comfort.

“We have arranged larger parking spaces and beautified many areas with decorations. Fire, electrical, and structural safety measures are mandatory. CCTV cameras have been installed at 50 locations, with an additional 25 in the Meena Bazaar section. Odisha CM Mohan Majhi will also participate,” he said.

Lakhs of Visitors Expected

Odisha Tourism Director Deepankar Mohapatra said preparations are nearly complete.

“Lakhs of people are expected to visit the 15th International Sand Art Festival and the 36th Konark Dance Festival. Like every year, the celebrations will continue from December 1 to 5,” he said.