Day 04 – Niladri Utsav 2025

💫 When Dance Became Darshan

Niladri Mahotsav Day 4 Dance evening at Jagannath Mandir, Thyagraj Nagar, was a breathtaking celebration of classical Indian arts. From Odissi to Kathak, every performance was an offering of devotion and grace that brought Lord Jagannath’s stories to life.

As twilight descended over the sacred courtyard of Shri Jagannath Mandir, Day 4 of Niladri Mahotsav 2025 unfolded not just as a cultural event — but as a spiritual offering through the language of classical dance. There were no dialogues, no speeches — only movement, music, and meaning.

The audience didn’t just watch the performances — they experienced them. Every mudra was a mantra. Every spin a story. Every rhythm a reminder of our rich heritage.

Highlights from Niladri Mahotsav Day 4 Dance Performances

🔶 Sanskriti Dance & Music Academy

🧑‍🏫 Mentored by Guru Srimanta Mishra
Specializing in Odissi, this group captured the pure essence of temple dance traditions from Odisha. Dancers adorned with silver jewelry and expressive eyes portrayed tales from the Jagannath Leela, Dashavatara, and the mysticism of Radha-Krishna Bhakti.

One standout performance was the depiction of “Braj Leela”, where Radha’s longing and Krishna’s divine mischief were presented through slow, circular movements and soulful expressions.

🔶 Uphaar Dance Company

🧑‍🏫 Mentored by Rahul Gangani & Upasna Sapra
Renowned for their work in Kathak, Uphaar’s dancers lit up the stage with intricate footwork, powerful spins, and storytelling rooted in devotion. The jatis and tihais (complex rhythmic patterns) mirrored the beating hearts of the devotees.

A Kathak rendition of “Shiva Tandava Stotram” was one of the most powerful moments — a fierce blend of grace and cosmic energy that left the audience breathless.

🎨 Devotion in Motion: Odissi & Kathak Light Up the Stage

While artists showcased mastery, what truly stood out was their intent. Every act was offered to Lord Jagannath. There were no commercial goals, no competitive tones — only spiritual submission through art.

From the smallest child dancer to the seasoned gurus, each step was an aarti, each glance a salutation. It reminded us that in Indian tradition, art is not for entertainment; it’s for enlightenment.

📷 Moments That Moved the Soul

• A mother whispered to her child: “Yeh dekho, Krishna ka natkhat swaroop.”
• An elderly Odissi connoisseur from Cuttack folded hands during the Dashavatara performance and quietly said, “I saw Jagannath in their dance.”
• Teenagers in the back row — who usually scroll on phones — were seen recording every act with awe, and even humming the bols (rhythmic syllables) by the end.

These weren’t just performances. These were shared spiritual moments woven into collective memory.

🕊️ Why Day 4 Was Unforgettable

✅ Intergenerational Bridge: Children, youth, elders — all came together, proving how classical arts still resonate when rooted in devotion.
✅ Aesthetic Ambience: Lights, rangoli, floral arches, and the temple backdrop created a divine setting that turned every photo into a postcard.
✅ Inclusive Vibes: The crowd included local devotees, classical dance lovers, tourists, and temple sevaks — proof that Rath Yatra Mahotsav belongs to everyone.

❤️ Behind the Scenes: Volunteers, Parents & Gurus

A huge part of Day 4’s success was the silent seva that happened off stage:

• Volunteers guided guests, helped children with costume changes, and served water to elders.
• Parents fixed ghungroos, adjusted dupattas, and whispered last-minute encouragements.
• Gurus didn’t just instruct — they blessed, embraced, and inspired.

This wasn’t just an event. It was a family effort in the service of culture and God.

🙏 Keep the Legacy Alive

The tradition of Indian classical dance has been passed down guru to shishya for centuries. Events like Niladri Mahotsav give young dancers a sacred platform to express their devotion.

Your donations help us provide costumes, lights, training, and travel support for underprivileged artists and students.
🎭 Support culture. Support devotion. Support India’s living traditions.
👉 [Donate Now – Tax Exempt under Section 80G]

🔔 Don’t Miss What’s Next

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for upcoming Rath Yatra performances.

🌐 For full event coverage and upcoming programs, visit: www.shrijagannathmandirdelhi.in
📸 Tag your Day 4 pictures with #NiladriMahotsav2025 and connect with the community.

✨ Because Bhakti Wears Many Forms…

Sometimes it sings.
Sometimes it sits in silence.
And sometimes — like on Day 4 — it dances.