Alaap 2025: A Celebration of Odissi Music and Cultural Heritage in Bhubaneswar

The cultural organization “Alaap Cultural Trust”, founded by eminent Odissi music exponent Guru Shree Nimakanta Rautaray, hosted a grand musical event “Alaap 2025” dedicated to Odissi classical music at Rabindra Mandap, Bhubaneswar. The event aimed to celebrate the rich heritage, evolution, and spiritual depth of Odissi music — one of India’s oldest and most revered classical traditions.

The prestigious gathering witnessed the presence of distinguished personalities, including Guru Shree Dhaneswar Swain, recipient of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and renowned mardala player; Dr. Bijay Kumar Jena, Principal of Utkal Sangeet Mahavidyalaya; Dr. Deepa Mishra, retired professor of Mumbai University; Dr. Alakananda Mahapatra, former Principal of Utkal Sangeet Mahavidyalaya; and noted social worker Shree Manas Kumar Jena. The function was presided over by Shree Badri Narayan Mohanty, President of Alaap Cultural Trust, and coordinated by Guru Shree Nimakanta Rautaray, Secretary of the Trust.

The event began with floral tributes and lamp lighting before the idol of Lord Jagannath, the eternal source and inspiration of Odissi music. In their addresses, the distinguished guests elaborated on the origin, evolution, and classical structure of Odissi music, its spiritual connection to the Jagannath Temple, and its essential role in enriching human life.

President Shree Badri Narayan Mohanty welcomed the guests with floral bouquets and mementos while highlighting the objectives and vision of Alaap Cultural Trust — to promote, preserve, and propagate Odissi music across generations. Expressing his gratitude, Guru Shree Nimakanta Rautaray thanked all the participants, guests, and supporters who made Alaap 2025 a memorable success.

The program was skillfully anchored by Dr. Mrutyunjaya Rath and Prof. Lokanath Mohanty. The highlight of the evening was a series of enchanting Odissi classical music performances, including Chaupadi, Chhanda, Odissi songs, Champu, and Chautisha, rendered by solo and group vocalists. Each presentation captivated the audience with its lyrical grace, rhythmic precision, and devotional fervor — reaffirming the timeless beauty of Odissi music.

Through Alaap 2025, Bhubaneswar once again echoed with the divine melodies of tradition, celebrating the soul of Odisha’s musical legacy and the dedication of its custodians.