The 36th Konark Festival and the 15th International Sand Art Festival are scheduled to kick off on Monday at Chandrabhaga Beach, marking the annual celebration of Odisha’s classical dance heritage and world-renowned sand artistry. Both events will run until December 5, alongside the debut of the Subhadra Shakti Mela.
According to reports, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi and Tourism Minister Pravati Parida will inaugurate the open-air stage. The Puri District Collector confirmed that all necessary preparations are completed.
Artists from across India will perform Odissi every evening during the five-day Konark Festival. The stage, set against the backdrop of the iconic Sun Temple, will host renowned dancers and troupes celebrating Odisha’s classical tradition.
This year’s International Sand Art Festival will showcase the work of 243 artists from 14 Indian states and five foreign countries. Exhibits will be displayed across 34 stalls. Renowned sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik confirmed the international nature of the event, stating, "Countries like Japan, Russia, Spain, and Sri Lanka are participating, along with 14 artists from Indian states and participants from 29 districts of Odisha."
For the first time, the Subhadra Shakti Mela will be organised at the venue, featuring 200 stalls. Women from Mission Shakti groups and artisans from across Odisha will showcase a wide array of handicrafts and traditional products.
Puri Collector and District Magistrate Dibya Jyoti Parida said extensive arrangements have been made across all venues, with a special focus on safety, crowd management, and visitor comfort.
“We have arranged larger parking spaces and beautified many areas with decorations. Fire, electrical, and structural safety measures are mandatory. CCTV cameras have been installed at 50 locations, with an additional 25 in the Meena Bazaar section. Odisha CM Mohan Majhi will also participate,” he said.
Odisha Tourism Director Deepankar Mohapatra noted that preparations are nearly complete, adding: "Lakhs of people are expected to visit the 15th International Sand Art Festival and the 36th Konark Dance Festival. Like every year, the celebrations will continue from December 1 to 5."
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