Impromptu Odissi by foreign exponents sets the tone for Chausathi Jogini fest

Bhubaneswar: Chausathi Jogini temple at Hirapur, about 20 km from the Odisha capital, is seeped in mystery. The shakti peetha exudes power that is hard to fathom. A group of Odissi dancers from the United States got a feel of it as they performed ‘Durga Shuti’ and ‘Mahisasura Badha’ on its premises yesterday.

These foreign artistes from an Odissi dance school are on a tour of Odisha along with their guru Anand Shakti, exploring its rich art and culture.

The impromptu one-hour performance without accompanying musicians or audience was a tribute to the power the place embodies. It was also a prelude to the upcoming Chausathi Yogini Mahotsav, beginning December 23.

The three-day festival, which is being organised for past 10 years, witnesses vibrant classical and folk dance performances along with music recitals.