The second evening of the Gopalpur Beach Festival lit up the Odisha coastline with a spectacular mix of cultural performances, drawing high praise from state ministers who hailed it as one of the country’s premier events.
Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, attending as chief guest, inaugurated the cultural programme and shared personal memories of Gopalpur Beach and Ganjam district. Highlighting the festival’s revival after a two-year hiatus, he described it as “one of the finest festivals in the country,” impressed by the sea aarti and overall arrangements. “The blend of cultural beauty against the backdrop of marine beauty has deeply impressed me,” Pujari said, noting Ganjam’s rich heritage in art, literature, culture, and valour.
Food Supplies & Consumer Welfare and Science & Technology Minister Krushna Chandra Patra echoed the sentiment, calling Ganjam a sacred land uniquely capable of hosting such a magnificent event. He emphasised the festival’s role in reviving local art and culture while highlighting national achievements like Atmanirbhar Bharat and DRDO advancements.
The evening featured mesmerising musical performances by renowned artists Maithili Thakur, Sohini Mishra, Rahul Sipligunj, and Shashank Shekhar, captivating audiences amid the soothing sea breeze.
A vibrant showcase of folk and traditional dances followed, including Odissi, Kalbelia (Rajasthan), Kathapada Navadurga, Lavani (Maharashtra), Sambalpuri, Bihu (Assam), Ghumar Chakri Kalbelia, Mallakhamb, tribal dances, animal-mask dance, Bollywood freestyle, and modern dance forms.
The stage was dedicated to legendary Odia poet Kabisurya Baladev Rath. Minister for Commerce & Transport and Steel & Mines Shri Bibhuti Bhusan Jena, the festival’s chief architect, praised the devotional sea aarti performed by priests from Varanasi as the event’s biggest attraction.
Other dignitaries included Chhatrapur MLA Krushna Chandra Nayak, Berhampur Municipal Corporation Mayor Sanghamitra Dalei, and Gopalpur NAC Chairman A. Janaki Ram. The Indian Navy and Coast Guard exhibitions also received appreciation.
District officials, led by Ganjam Collector V. Keerthi Vasan, ensured smooth arrangements for the revived festival, which continues to draw crowds to Gopalpur’s scenic shores.
