Orissa Govt brings Konark temple in capital

New Delhi, Mar 26 (UNI) Seeking to depict the rich heritage of Orissa to attract more tourists, the state government will construct a replica of the famous Konark temple in sand at the five-day Orissa festival starting tomorrow at Dilli Haat here.

A sand artist from Orissa will construct the replica of the world heritage site with two tonnes of sand, the Principal Resident Commissioner of Orissa Srinivas Injeti said.

Addressing a press conference here, he said, ''Publicity-shy Orissa is making its first attempt to attract more tourists by putting up a big show in the capital .'' The festival being held in collaboration with Dilli Haat would showcase dances (such as Odissi, Sambalpuri, Chhau, Ghoda nacha, Ghumura, Ranappa and Gotipua), handicraft, handloom (Sambalpuri) and typical Orissan cuisine.

A part of Dilli Haat would be converted into a mini Orissa, famous for its art and culture, Mr Injeti said.

About 150 artisans would display their art, craft and expertise in the urban art village which is also celebrating its 12th anniversary this month.

About 40 artists, including Kabita Dwibedi, would be performing Odissi and other folk dances at the festival.

Orissa had been attracting more than 4.6 million tourists including one million at Puri for its Jagannath temple every year, Mr Injeti claimed.

About 40,000 foreign tourists had visited the state last year, he said.

''The idea to put up such a grand show at Dilli Haat is to attract more foreign tourists,'' he added.

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