Brahmapur : The second evening of the Gopalpur Beach Festival 2026 was celebrated with great grandeur, cultural splendour and massive public participation on Wednesday, transforming the Gopalpur coastline into a vibrant centre of culture, devotion, patriotism and festivity. The event witnessed the presence of distinguished dignitaries, renowned artists, and thousands of spectators, making it one of the most memorable evenings of the festival.
The programme was formally inaugurated by Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Shri Suresh Pujari, who attended the event as the Chief Guest. While addressing the gathering, the Minister shared his deep emotional connection with Gopalpur Beach and Ganjam district, stating that many personal and political memories are associated with this land. He recalled the historic mass protest held years ago in front of Khalikote College, which, he said, remains vividly alive in his memory.
Referring to the revival of the festival after a two-year gap, Shri Pujari said that the successful return of the Gopalpur Beach Festival is the result of the collective efforts, dedication and sincerity of the people and administration. He praised the unique Sea Aarti and various spiritual and cultural programmes, stating that after witnessing festivals across Odisha and different parts of India, he could confidently say that Gopalpur Beach Festival stands among the finest festivals in the country.
He further expressed that the combination of natural marine beauty and cultural richness deeply moved him. Describing Ganjam as not just a land of art, literature and culture, but also a land of bravery, courage and revolution, he said that the soil of Ganjam has always produced great leaders and brave sons who have contributed to the formation of modern Odisha. He expressed confidence that Ganjam will continue to play a leadership role in building a new, strong and self-reliant Odisha, and will remain a guiding force in shaping the future of the state.
The Minister also praised the exhibitions and demonstrations by the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard, calling them inspiring and educational for the public.
Food Supplies & Consumer Welfare and Science & Technology Minister Shri Krushna Chandra Patra, while addressing the gathering, said that Ganjam is a sacred land of art and culture, and only a district like Ganjam can successfully host such a unique and world-class festival. He expressed strong confidence that festivals like this would lead to the revival and resurgence of art, literature and cultural heritage of the district. Through various examples, he highlighted India’s progress in Atmanirbhar Bharat, achievements under Operation Sindoor, and the success of DRDO scientists, stating that no force can stop India from emerging as a global power in the future.
The festival’s Chief Guide and Commerce & Transport, Steel & Mines Minister Shri Bibhuti Bhushan Jena said that the devotional Sea Aarti performed by priests from Varanasi has become the biggest attraction for visitors. He appreciated the role of electronic, print and social media, stating that their coverage has taken the Gopalpur Beach Festival to every corner of the world, making them deserving of special appreciation.
Several eminent dignitaries attended the programme as honoured guests, including Chhatrapur MLA Shri Krushna Chandra Nayak, Berhampur Municipal Corporation Mayor Smt. Sanghamitra Dalei, Zilla Parishad President Smt. Anjali Swain, and Gopalpur NAC Chairman Shri A. Janaki Ram.
Star Performances & Cultural Extravaganza
Under the soothing sea breeze and the rhythmic sound of waves, the audience was mesmerised by performances from nationally renowned singers and artists including Maithili Thakur, Sohini Mishra, Rahul Sipligunj and Shashank Shekhar, whose powerful vocals and musical performances created an electrifying atmosphere at the beach venue.
The festival stage was dedicated in the name of Kabisurya Baladeba Rath, honouring his contribution to Odia literature and culture.
The cultural segment featured a spectacular lineup of diverse dance and folk forms, including:
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Odissi dance
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Kalbelia (Rajasthan folk dance)
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Modern dance
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Tribal dances
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Kathapada Navadurga
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Lavani from Maharashtra
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Bollywood freestyle dance
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Animal-mask folk dance
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Sambalpuri dance
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Mallakhamb
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Bihu dance from Assam
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Ghumura and Chhakri Kalbelia
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Several other regional and folk dance traditions
These performances left the audience spellbound and turned the festival ground into a living museum of Indian cultural diversity.
Honouring Achievers & Efficient Administration
Winners of the day’s sports events and distinguished personalities were felicitated on the main stage by the honoured guests.
The event witnessed seamless coordination and management under the leadership of Ganjam District Collector Shri V. Keerthi Vasan, Ganjam SP Shri Shubendu Patra, Berhampur Municipal Corporation Commissioner Shri Prathamesh Arvind Rajasirke, and Berhampur Sub-Collector Shri Abinash Kumar, who also expressed gratitude for public cooperation.
The welcome address was delivered by Additional District Magistrate Shri Pramod Kumar Prusti, who highlighted the cultural significance and administrative efforts behind the grand organisation of the festival.
With spiritual devotion, cultural magnificence, youth energy, patriotic spirit, and mass participation, the second evening of the Gopalpur Beach Festival 2026 emerged as a powerful symbol of Odisha’s cultural pride, tourism potential, and national identity, firmly establishing Gopalpur as one of India’s most iconic coastal cultural destinations.
