Ekamra Utsav 2025: Residents express disappointment over exclusion of Dot Fest from event's schedule

Bhubaneswar, Jan 6: Several Bhubaneswar residents have voiced their disappointment and frustration over the Bhubaneswar Development Authority’s (BDA) recent decision to exclude Dot Fest from this year’s Ekamra Utsav lineup. Dot Fest, known for featuring performances by renowned artists from India and abroad, has become one of the festival’s most anticipated attractions.

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BDA explained that the decision to omit Dot Fest was due to scheduling conflicts with the Adivasi Mela, which began at the IDCO Exhibition Ground on Sunday. The Adivasi Mela, a cultural event focused on indigenous traditions, is running parallel to Ekamra Utsav this year.

Shyamili Mohanty, a resident of Siripur, expressed her disappointment, stating that both events offer unique cultural experiences. "Cultural performances of the Adivasi Mela and Dot Fest are different. Both are eagerly anticipated, and Dot Fest features popular artists every year. It shouldn't have been dropped," Mohanty said.

Despite the exclusion of Dot Fest, the BDA is moving forward with other major events under the Ekamra Utsav banner, including Park Utsav, a food festival, elaborate lighting displays, a flea market, and curated Ekamra Walks. The festival will run through January 16, with a budget of Rs 3.5 crore allocated for its various components. BDA has partnered with a private event management company to organize these events.

A senior BDA official explained that the decision was made due to space constraints, as both Ekamra Utsav and Adivasi Mela were being held at overlapping venues. "There are many parallel events being organized on the sidelines of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, and Ekamra Utsav and Adivasi Mela are part of that. We had to drop Dot Fest as it conflicted with the venue," the official said.

However, some residents believe the omission of Dot Fest will significantly affect the festival’s appeal. Animesh Patra, a resident of Acharya Vihar, remarked, "Dot Fest was a major crowd-puller in previous years. Its absence this year will certainly impact the overall festivities."

The decision has sparked debate among residents, many of whom were looking forward to the popular music and cultural performances that Dot Fest traditionally brings to the city.