Odisha's festival Nuakhai celebrated in Dubai

BHUBANESWAR: The Paschim Odisha Parviaar of United Arab Emirates (UAE) organised the Prabasi Nuakhai Bhetghat at the Indian Consulate auditorium in Dubai recently, a press release said.The highlights this year were the presence of internationally acclaimed Sambalpuri and Odissi dancer Saswat Joshi, actor and playwright Atal Bihari Panda (famous for his roles in 'Salaa Budha' and 'Aadim Vichar' movies) and a 12-member troupe from Sambalpur Kala Parishad.'Saptapar,' an exclusive Sambalpuri Multi Ethnic Fashion Show, was another attraction of the evening. Sambalpuri songs and dances were showcased by local Odia children and adults.The chief guest at Nuakhai Bhetghat UAE 2017 was Vipul, Consul General, Consulate General of India, Dubai, UAE.Odia families from Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE presented a dance drama in Sambalpuri. The 12 Member Troupe from Sambalpur Kala Parishad won over the audience with the sheer power of their talent. Of particular interest was the ‘Dhap’ dance which is performed by an ancient Adivasi tribe of Western Orissa, the ‘Kandhas’. The dance is an integral part of all major festivals, especially the Nuakhai festival.