Bhubaneswar- the Temple City of India was earlier known as Ekamra Kshetra literally meaning the land of mango orchards. The name had a mythological significance as the mango orchards have a special relevance in the union of lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Thus Bhubaneswar is known to be a renowned Shaiva Pitha. Being the capital city of the culturally rich Orissa, Bhubaneswar has nourished and encouraged creativity in all forms. The city boasts of a unique tradition of arts, crafts, dance, music and literature. Anchored to its traditional roots, the city has matched steps with changing times and that too, quite gracefully! Ekamra- the Temple City Festival is an occasion to celebrate this unique dynamic spirit of Bhubaneswar. This festival showcases the impeccable blend of tradition and modernity, which is characteristic of the city. The various components of the festival revive the cultural heritage and simultaneously express Bhubaneswar’s acceptance of the modern outlook.

Date: 10th- 11th January 2010

Kalinga Mahotsav is an annual event of martial dances held on the historically significant Dhauli hills on the bank of River Daya near Bhubaneswar. With the giant white Peace Pagoda as the backdrop, the expert martial dancers exhibit incredible postures of aggression, defense and escape with a grace, par imagination. As one observes these stunning movements in front of the magnificent Buddhist monument under a starry sky, memories of the ancient Kalinga War which had led to the miraculous transformation of Emperor Ashoka become alive. While the martial dancers thrill the audience with their rhythm and precision of movement, the Dhauli Stupa stands still delivering a message loud and clear that ‘peace reigns supreme’.

MUKTESWAR DANCE FESTIVAL
Date: 14th-16th January 2010

The Mukteswar Temple in Bhubaneswar, famous for its elegantly carved arched gateway is considered as one of the finest examples of Orissan architecture. The complex of this legendary temple serves as the venue of the Mukteswar Dance Festival. This festival celebrates the unrivalled charisma of Odissi, the classical dance form of Orissa. Star Odissi dancers tapping their feet to the strokes of the accompanying instruments like mardal mesmerize the audience with their classic attire and graceful movements. Solo, duet and group performances by these dancers, their abhinaya, bhangi and mudra give the onlookers a transcendental experience.

Date: 18th- 20th January 2010

Orissa is a land of arts, crafts, literature, dance and music. The people of Orissa have always expressed their quest for creativity in any and every form. The Rajarani Music Festival held in the beautiful courtyard of the Rajarani Temple in Bhubaneswar is one such occasion to celebrate the richness and originality of Indian classical music. Evening concerts by great maestros of Indian Classical music fill the air with enchanting chimes. When these experts play on their musical instruments the listeners get captivated by the soul-lifting music.

   Utsav Highlights :

 Toshali National Crafts Mela : Janta  Maidan :15th – 27th Feb 08

 Mini Marathon : Mini Marathon To be Flagged off at Kalinga Stadium traverse through the important inter sections of Bhubaneswar city (15 km) :17th Feb 08

Mukteswar Dance Festival : Mukteswar-Parsurameswar temple premises: 17th – 19th Feb 08

 Kalinga Mahotsav :Shanti Stupa, Dhauli : 23rd –24th Feb 08

 Ekamra Food Festival : Exhibition Ground : 20th – 27th Feb 08

 Rajarani Music Festival :Rajarani Temple Complex : 26th – 28th Feb 08