Bhubaneswar: In a radiant celebration of Odisha’s cultural legacy, Upasaraṇam 2025, the annual showcase of Sṛjan – Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra Odissi Nrityabasa, brought classical Odissi dance to the forefront at Rabindra Mandap in Bhubaneswar. With a mesmerizing evening of devotion, rhythm, and artistic excellence, 75 young dancers took center stage, reaffirming the state’s pivotal role in preserving and promoting this ancient art form.
Since its establishment in 1993, Sṛjan has remained at the forefront of Odissi dance training and performance. Upasaraṇam, meaning “moving towards excellence,” is a cornerstone of Sṛjan’s training calendar, offering a platform for the academy’s budding artists to present their progress before an appreciative audience.
The event was graced by luminaries such as celebrated percussionist Abanikant Das; Sarat Das, Director, Guru Pankaj Charan Odissi Research Foundation; renowned sitarist Rabishankar Pradhan; and eminent journalist and poet Kedar Mishra, alongside Ratikant Mohapatra, Director of Sṛjan and Dean, Faculty of Arts, Communication and Indic Studies at Sri Sri University. The evening began with the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp, followed by a soul-stirring series of performances from the young dancers, each trained rigorously in Sṛjan’s tradition.
A Journey Through Devotion, Rhythm, and Rasa
Opening with “Niladrou Sankha-Madhye” (Jagannatha Vandana), the dancers invoked the Lord of the Universe, Jagannath, through music by Rupak Kumar Parida and original choreography by Guru Ratikant Mohapatra. The group rendition was reimagined by Daina Ghose. The youthful ensemble displayed poise and passion, setting a devotional tone that resonated throughout the program.
This was followed by “Shantakaram Bhujagashayanam” (Vishnu Vandana) from the Vishnu Sahasranamam, a prayer to Lord Vishnu, showcasing the genius of Bijaya Kumar Jena’s musical composition and Guru Ratikant Mohapatra’s choreography, rejuvenated by Sanjaya Kumar Behera. The dancers’ maturity and rhythmic synchronicity were remarkable for their age, bringing spiritual serenity and technical finesse to life.
Rhythmic Offerings to Lord Vinayaka
In homage to Lord Ganesha, the shloka “Vakratunda Mahakaya” was performed to the timeless composition of Pt. Hariprasad Chaurasia. The choreography by Ratikant Mohapatra, renewed by Aishwariya Singhdev, showcased group aesthetics and intricate formations that captivated the audience.
Gatibheda Pallavi and Shiva Stotram
A major highlight was the revival of Gatibheda Pallavi, an intricate classic choreographed by Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra to music by Pt. Bhubaneswar Mishra. Known for its complex rhythmic variations, this piece was presented by 15 talented students in a dynamic group arrangement by Preetisha Mohapatra. The technical mastery and stamina of the young dancers left the audience spellbound.
Spiritual devotion continued with the Shiva Panchakshara Stotram, “Nagendra Haraya”, originally choreographed by the duo of Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra and Pt. Bhubaneswar Mishra. The composition was reimagined for a group by G. Sanjay, evoking reverence with every step and gesture by the young performers.
Odia Abhinaya “Nachanti Range Sri Hari”
The showcase concluded on an exuberant note with “Nachanti Range Sri Hari”, depicting Lord Krishna’s joyous dance with the Gopis. This traditional Odia abhinaya piece, under the expert guidance of senior Sṛjan faculty Rajashri Praharaj, brought together grace, emotion, and boundless energy. The ensemble portrayed the divine joy of Krishna’s “Ananda Tandava”, leaving the audience uplifted and inspired.
A Unified Effort, A Resounding Success
Seamless execution and stunning lighting design by Debiprassad Mishra added to the evening’s visual and emotional appeal. The event highlighted not only the exceptional talent of Sṛjan’s students but also the collective effort of faculty, alumni, senior ensemble members, and parents, all committed to the preservation and promotion of Odissi dance.
