FAIRS AND FESTIVALS IN ODISHA

An excursion to Odisha, a magnificent land that beholds its tourists and travellers like no other. From sun-kissed sand beaches to ancient temples, it is indeed a lovely destination to take a tour to. Making it more captivating and bewitching are undoubtedly the fairs and festivals in Odisha, which are a great depiction of the state’s culture, tradition, heritage and identity. Each one of the fairs and festivals are delighting, with presence of colours, dance and songs that could catch the eye of any onlooker. Even, some of them depict religious excitement and enthusiasm that touches people. Some of the famous and well-known fairs and festivals of Odisha are listed below.

List of Fairs and Festivals:

Car Festival – Also been referred to as Ratha Yatra, it is celebrated during the month of June to July and is among one of the most popular and visited festivals of the state. In this, deities Lord Jagannath, Subhadra and Balabhadra are brought out of their temple, placed in a huge chariot and pulled altogether by thousands of people. Indeed, it is worth seeing once in a lifetime.

International Sand Art Festival – Held by the Odisha Cultural department, this remarkable sand art festival is ideal for those who love to have a look at the sand creations. Held at Chandrabagha Beach, this festival highlights the state and its astonishing tourism opportunities and organized from 1st to 5th December.

Konark Dance Festival – This popular dance and music festival is been organized by Odisha Dance Academy under the guidance of Guru Padmashree Gangadhar Pradhan. Being more than a cultural program, it is held in February every year.

Mukteswar Dance Festival – The famous dance festival at Mukteswar temple is held in the month of January and showcases traditional dance forms and singing performances by the well known personalities.

Rajarani Music Festival – It is held during the month of January against the backside of famous and old 11th century Rajarani temple in Bhubaneswar. The remarkable event is famous for its soothing music, divine surroundings and pleasant ambience.

Dhauli Kalinga Mahotsav – This popular festival is been organized by the Government of Odisha, Department of Tourism, and Odisha Dance Academy. Worth watching the festival, it contains performing arts of martial or folk as well as different cultural events. This festival is held during the month of February.

Puri Beach Festival – Being celebrated at the coastal side of Puri in Odisha, it is held every year for about 5 days in the month of November. Gained huge popularity in last few years, the festival is a delightful celebration and must-watch for sure.

Gopalpur Beach Festival – Supposed to be promoting both tourism and culture, the first beach festival was been held in 1996. It is held in the month of December and jointly organized by the Government of Odisha and Ganjam District of Hotel Association.

In a shell, a tour to Odisha could be a very memorable experience. And if you get the chance to blend it with a visit to any of the pleasant fair or festival, you definitely will have a lifetime moment that could be cherished ever.