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Konark Dance Festival

Konark, also known as Arka-Tirtha, is known for its temple of Lord Surya (Sun). Situated on the shores of the river Chandrabhaga, this architectural splendour gears up in the winter to rejoice the Konark Dance Festival.


¤ History of the Dance Festival

Konark festival was first organized in 1989 at the Open Air Auditorium, Konark. Conceived as a festival of classical dances of India, the main idea to patronize the dance festival was to promote Konark and hence Orrisa, as a place of tourist destination. The fiesta is a joint effort by Orrisa Dance Academy and Eastern Zonal Cultural Center, Kolkata to bolster Indian Classical Art in the global market.


¤ A Five Day Long Classical Feat

Initially during the years 1989 and 1990, the festival was being organized for a period of 3 days. Later, as the glory of the festival climbed to its summit, the span was extended further to five days. The classical extravaganza invites aficionados from all over the country and includes dance presentations such as Bharatnatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Manipuri, Chau and revitalization of ancient dance forms like " Abhinaya Chandrika"- an opulent jubilee that will surely leave you bedazzled. A regalia of gold-stringed rhythms synchronized with musical instruments, fine cocktails of Art & Craft, this complete package of five days held during the 1st week of December, leaves its impression on the minds of every traveller.


¤ The Dance Colosseum

The ethereal Natyamandapa (Dancing hall) of this 700 years old shrine is a architectural incredulity in itself. Although partly in ruins, its colossal size, exquisite stone carvings executed with masterly touch and the diversity of themes, simply takes one's breath away. The Natyamandira greets everyone wholeheartedly, with two fierce-looking lions, one on each side of the steps and elephants sitting atop writhing men. It is said that, the lion signifies power, the elephant connotes wealth and man stands for justice. Conjointly, the walls of the Natyamandira are also beautifully carved with interesting visions. There are thousands of images of deities, celestial bodies, musicians, dancers, lovers, military battles and courtly leisures, elegantly engraved on the northern, western and southern facades of the temple.


¤ And the Gala Continues

Another attraction of the festival is the Craft Mela and Handicraft Exhibition. Organized by the State Industry Department since 1991, this fair boasts of trendy handicrafts, artists camps, rural handlooms and potteries, where skilled artisans and craftsman display their dexterity in a rural setting.


¤ How to Get There

Konark is located 65 km from Bhubaneswar and 35 km north of Puri on Marine Drive, right next to the ocean. There are regular State Government and private buses to and fro from Puri, that take about an hour. It takes around 2-4 hours from Bhubaneswar, with a change of buses at Pipli. Secondly, there are daily tour buses that goes to Konark from Puri and Bhubaneswar (Tues to Sat). Besides, you can also hire a taxi or other private cars from Puri.