Archive · 5 Sep 2026
Nabagunjar Festival Returns to Dhenkanal for Day-Long Celebration
The Nabagunjar Dance and Music Festival is coming back to Dhenkanal in Odisha.
It will happen on September 6 and last all day.
The Abhinaya Foundation is organising it from 9 AM to 9 PM.
People will see different kinds of dance, music, and singing.
These include Odissi, Kuchipudi, folk dance, and Hindustani vocals.
There will also be a special performance using the mardala, violin, flute, and vocals.
The festival is named after Nabagunjar, a mythical form connected with Lord Krishna.
Several artists and groups will receive awards during the celebration.
The second Nabagunjar Dance and Music Festival will be held in Dhenkanal, Odisha, on September 6.
Organised by the Abhinaya Foundation, the festival will run from 9 AM to 9 PM.
Performances will include Odissi, Kuchipudi, folk dance, Hindustani vocals, and a fusion presentation.
The festival takes its name from Nabagunjar, a mythical form associated with Lord Krishna in Odisha’s traditions.
Adwaita Gadanayak will receive the Abhinaya Gurushree Award, while other awards will recognise Bajaranga Club and dancer Minakshi Rani Jena.
- Who
- The Abhinaya Foundation is organising the festival, with performances by artists from different backgrounds; Adwaita Gadanayak and others will receive awards.
- What
- The second Nabagunjar Dance and Music Festival will present dance, music, cultural performances, and award ceremonies.
- When
- Sunday, September 6, from 9 AM to 9 PM; the article does not specify the festival year.
- Where
- Dhenkanal, Odisha.
- Why
- To celebrate Odisha’s artistic traditions, showcase performing arts, and support awareness of the region’s cultural heritage.
- Event
- Second Nabagunjar Dance and Music Festival
- Date
- September 6
- Schedule
- 9 AM to 9 PM
- Location
- Dhenkanal, Odisha
- Organiser
- Abhinaya Foundation
- Performances
- Odissi, Kuchipudi, folk dance, Hindustani vocal recital, and a fusion presentation
- Main award recipient
- Adwaita Gadanayak will receive the Abhinaya Gurushree Award
- Other awards
- The Nabagunjar Nrutya Prerana Award 2026 and Abhinaya Social Excellence Award 2026 will recognise recipients including Bajaranga Club and Minakshi Rani Jena