Bhubaneswar: The second evening of the Ekamra Utsav music program, hosted by the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA), unfolded in a symphony of enchanting melodies. BDA Vice Chairman, Balwant Singh and Team BDA has organized the event in such a way, it has taken the audience and spectators to next level of enjoyment, feel experts.
Aptly named ‘Sangitara Murchana,’ that roughly translates to musical madness, Sunday’s event witnessed the soul-stirring performances of two veteran vocalists, Anuradha Paudwal and Suresh Wadkar, leaving the audience spellbound.
Anuradha Paudwal’s mellifluous voice echoed through the air as she commenced the evening with devotional hymns dedicated to Lord Jagannath. Her rendition of timeless Odia classics like “Kalia Mo Dehe Bolide” and “Keri Keri Suna Duba ” captivated listeners, transporting them to a realm of musical bliss. Transitioning seamlessly, she serenaded the audience with melodious Odia tunes, including “Asiba Bara Tora, Hoiba Bahaghara” and “Ae Phul Kaha Thare.”
The enchantment continued as Suresh Wadkar took the stage, weaving his magic with Odia melodies. His heartfelt renditions of songs like “Rupsi Priysi” and “Sarigala Michhi Michika Bahaghar” resonated deeply with the audience, evoking nostalgia and emotion. Each note of classics such as “Shrabani Tama Bahagharku mate dakiba” and “Alo Mor Kandhei” carried the essence of Odia culture and tradition.
The second evening of ‘Sangitara Murchana’ bore witness to the timeless allure of music, weaving together the rich fabric of Odia heritage and tradition, leaving an indelible mark on all those who experienced its magic.
The seven day Ekamra Utsav, organised by the Bhubaneswar Development Authority is a celebration of Odia language and culture, was inaugurated today at the IDCO exhibition ground.
One of the biggest festivals of the State, Ekamra Utsav holds special significance as it is a sincere effort at highlighting the States’ dedication to preserving and showcasing its linguistic heritage.
The festival was inaugurated by Housing and Urban Minister Usha Devi, and is being organised on the sidelines of the first World Odia Language Conference.
Running until February 9, the festival comprises five distinct components promising diverse experiences, and celebrates the rich heritage of Odisha, encompassing its cinema, language, literature, and all facets that define the Odia identity.
In addition to Sangitara Murchana, the festival is also hosting the Food Festival – “AMA BYANJAN,” with 20 food stalls will invite attendees to delve into the vibrant traditions and flavors of Odisha. This featured delicacies representing various districts of the state, alongside a bustling flea market and experience zones offering a platform for exploration and connection.
The Ekamra Haat (Night Flea Market of Ekamra Utsav) showcasing 33 stalls will run from 3-9 February at the Ekamra Expo Area in Bhubaneswar, from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM daily, showcasing the cultural vibrancy of Odia heritage against the city’s lively backdrop.
A highlight of the festival includes a drone show scheduled for February 7, 8, and 9, themed around Odia language, art, and culture, featuring 200 drones. Additionally, designs based on Odia language, art, and culture will adorn Madhusudan Marg leading to the venue, promoting the essence of the language and heritage.
Ekamra Utsav aims to honor the profound legacy and ancient roots of the Odia Language through a captivating exhibition centered on the Odia alphabet.