6th-8th February, 2026 at 6.30 pm at Foothills of Dhauli, Shanti Vihar
Organized by : Odia Language Literature & Culture Department, Govt. of Odisha & Orissa Dance Academy In association with
Ministry of Culture & Ministry of Tourism, Government of India and Art Vision
BBSR (Odisha Tazanews) :- The Government of Odisha envisions a strong and sustained mission for the development of culture and tourism in the state. Cultural tourism has been strategically designed to promote Odisha’s rich heritage and position the state as a one-stop cultural destination
Every year in the month of February, as night descends upon the city, the serene foothills of Dhauli transform into a spectacular cultural canvas. Against the majestic backdrop of the Peace Pagoda, stars of Indian performing arts present an array of spellbinding performances that leave audiences mesmerized.
The Dhauli-Kalinga Mahotsav seeks to spread the message of peace through concerts featuring classical, folk, and martial dance forms, along with music traditions of India, presented by artistes from across the country and abroad. Nearly 300 artistes from diverse disciplines participate in the Mahotsav each year. The festival also aims to nurture emerging talent while fostering international cultural amity and harmony.
BUDDHA SAMMAN: Instituted by the Orissa Dance Academy (ODA) 18 years ago, the prestigious Buddha Samman is conferred annually upon an eminent personality from the field of creative and performing arts. The award carries a citation, ongo bostro, and a cash prize of Rs. 2,00,000/- This year, the honour is being bestowed upon Dr. Ananta Mohapatra, eminent theatre personality.
SWARNA SMARAKI SAMMAN: In its Golden Jubilee year, a special award, “SWARNA SMARAKI SAMMAN” will be conferred upon Shri Lalit Mansingh, Former Indian Diplomat and great patron of Performing Arts of India.
GURU GANGADHAR SMRUTI SAMMAN :
Established in 2016 in memory of ODA’s founder Guru Shri Gangadhar Pradhan, a Padmashree Awardee, the samman is awarded to distinguished individuals for their contributions to culture and the arts. This year, the award is conferred upon four eminent personalities from different fields:
Smt. Sikata Das, Eminent Odissi Dancer
Guru Keshab Charan Rout, Renowned Singer and Composer
Shri Manmath Satapathy, Noted Theatre Personality and Cultural Revivalist
Dr. Chittaranjan Mallia, Noted Scholar
Each award carries a citation, anga bastro, and a cash prize of Rs. 1,00,000/-.
