| Medium of instruction: | English |
Classical dance in India evolved as an expression of devotion to the Higher Being. Odissi, one of the seven Indian classical dance forms, was nurtured in the famous shrines of Orissa. A large number of dancing girls known as Maharis were attached to these temples, performing morning and evening rituals for the deities. Although this tradition declined with political upheavals in the region, it was followed by the gotipua dance tradition, which took place in public space and was performed by adolescent boys. Odissi as we know it today reflects a process of reconstruction that began after Independence. It retains elements of both Mahari and gotipua dance and also incorporates the allied art forms of Orissa. Odissi dance strikes a distinctive balance between grace and power. The characteristic features of Odissi are its deflection of the hip, stances like Chauka and Tribhanga, arched and linear hand movements as well rounded body movements. It is full of sculpturesque poses known as Bhangis.
| Classroom - Regular | ||||
| When | Duration | Where | Remarks | Price |
| Not Specified | Not Specified | Unit - 8,Bhubaneswar (Head Office) | Duration of the class is 1 hour 30 minutes. Weekly... more |
INR 400 Per Session (Taxes As Applicable) |
Orissa Dance Academy
Orissa Dance Academy, one of the premier cultural institution of Orissa, founded by Guru Gangadhar Pradhan, eminent Odissi dance exponent. Established in the year 1975, it has made major contributions in projecting and popularizing Odissi dance and music, as well as imparting intensive training to upcoming artistes both in India and abroad. ODA’s repertory group has enthralled audiences in the U.S., Canada, U.K, South America, France, Holland, Japan, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Korea, Germany and other countries of Asia and Europe. Their faculties have taught all across India and abroad, including the United States.
Upholding a rich cultural heritage the Academy has moved ahead with its noble and dynamic mission in embracing many artistes into its cultural fold, and aims at international culture amity and harmony.
It is a unique institution where studios are never silent. Training classes are conducted by eminent and experienced gurus in a scientific manner round the clock. It also organizes “Udaya Raga”- young solo dancers’ festival in March, and “Nrutyambada” - the annual festival of dance and music every year in the month of May every year.
It organises 'Dhauli-Kalinga Mahotsav' at Shanti Vihar, foothills of Dhauli, Bhubaneswar from 10th to 14th December every year to create cultural awareness among the people.
The dedication and devotion of our students to this art form has carved a special niche for the Academy in the cultural arena.
The organization is led and nurtured by Aruna Mohanty, one of the finest dancers in the field of Odissi.
