Classical Dance Form Odissi Finds Recognition in Mewar
Graceful beginnings of a cultural renaissance through dedication and vision
By Vilas Janve
Establishing any classical art in a new region is never an easy task. But when intent is clear and purpose is strong, no goal remains out of reach. In 2020, a talented young artist arrived in Mewar from Kolkata, carrying years of rigorous training in Odissi classical dance under the esteemed guidance of Guru Sharmila Biswas. Gaining rich experience by performing across India with his Guru’s troupe, the artist, Krishnendu Saha, set out on a new mission—with blessings from his Guru—to explore a future for Odissi in Mewar.
With support from Udaipur’s art connoisseurs, patrons, and curious learners, Krishnendu founded Nrityormi School of Odissi. His journey gained momentum when Maharani Nivritti Kumari of Mewar, herself a refined connoisseur of the arts and originally from Balangir, Odisha, extended her special encouragement to Krishnendu and to the classical dance form of Odissi. She even inspired her two daughters to begin learning the dance under Krishnendu’s guidance.
With growing love and respect received in Mewar, Krishnendu has embraced his role as a young Guru with integrity and devotion. Nrityormi has now completed three successful years in Udaipur. On the evening of May 10, the institution celebrated its third annual festival, Nrityakriti, with great elegance at Darpan Auditorium, Shilpgram, Udaipur. The day brought a double dose of joy—news of a peaceful ceasefire between India and Pakistan, and the stunning on-stage performances of classical Odissi.
From young children to adults between 7 and 40 years of age, the dancers left the audience spellbound with their skill and grace. So refined were the performances that it was hard to believe these dancers were students from a local Odissi training institute. With discipline and grace, they embodied the soul of this classical style.
The auditorium was adorned with fragrant flowers from the gate to the stage. A beautiful idol of Lord Jagannath, flanked by a glowing oil lamp (samai), flowers, and offerings, created a deeply spiritual atmosphere. The performance began with Ramastakam, where Krishnendu Saha himself portrayed the life and valour of Lord Rama—from his birth to the victory over Lanka—with masterful expressions.
Young disciples of Nrityormi then presented Swagatam Krishna, charming the audience with their synchronized group performance. Fifteen students danced in harmony, showcasing expressive mudras and rhythmic coordination that reflected hours of dedicated practice.
This was followed by a duet titled Basant Pallavi, based on Raag Basant, choreographed by Padma Bhushan Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra and set to music by Pt. Bhubaneswar Mishra. The dancers, sisters Gauri and Haldini (who receive online training from Pune), illustrated how every particle of creation rejoices in spring.
Another enthralling presentation was Raag Bhairav Pallavi, performed by young students who blended rhythm, tempo, and elegant movements with spiritual depth and serenity.
One of the most captivating moments was the Radha-Krishna presentation by Krishnendu Saha. His emotive storytelling and profound expression portrayed the eternal bond between Radha and Krishna, bringing poetry to life on stage.
The final performance, Moksha Mandalam, saw Guru Krishnendu Saha joined by his senior disciples Srishti, Rudrakshi, and Ketki. The presentation exuded spiritual intensity, culminating in a meditative aura that enveloped the audience. As the performers came forward to receive blessings, the entire auditorium rose in a standing ovation.
Krishnendu Saha’s commitment to the art, his eagerness to learn and teach, and his sincerity mark a promising future. For Mewar, it is a joyful and fortunate moment to have such a sensitive and hardworking artist nurturing classical dance with such devotion.
In short, the sun of classical Odissi dance has truly risen in Mewar.
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