The birth centenary celebrations of Padma Vibhushan Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra, the legendary pioneer of Odissi dance, kicked off with the three-day program “Kelucharan Kirti Shatakam” at Rabindra Mandap.
The event, running from January 8 to 10, features discussion circles on Guru Kelucharan’s unique Odissi style alongside evening performances titled Odissi Sandhya.
The inaugural Odissi Sandhya drew distinguished guests, including Odisha Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, Padma Vibhushan Dr Sonal Mansingh, Padmashree Dr Priyambada Mohanty Hejmadi, and Guru Ratikant Mohapatra.
Minister Suryabanshi Suraj inaugurated a special photo exhibition chronicling Guru Kelucharan’s life and contributions.
In his address, the Minister stated, “Guru Kelucharan’s fame and works are eternally memorable to us. In the early part of the 20th century, when Odissi dance received its revival, Guruji played a pivotal role. His pioneering efforts elevated Odissi to national and international stages, ensuring its promotion and expansion.”
Padma Vibhushan Dr Sonal Mansingh remarked, “Guru Kelucharan and Odissi are one and inseparable. He not only promoted and propagated Odissi but also shaped numerous dancers. Today, his disciples gather to reminisce and renew their commitment to keeping the Odissi tradition vibrantly alive.”
The evening showcased captivating performances by artists from the Srujan institution. The program opened with a group presentation of “Vande Mataram”, evoking patriotic fervour and celebrating Mother India.
Solo and ensemble pieces followed, including:
- Kumkum Mohanty performing “He Banagiri He Lata Giri”
- Kumkum Lal with “Kuru Yadu Nandana”
- Madhavi Mudgal in *”Shankarabharana Pallavi”
- Ileana Citaristi presenting *”Dhira Samire”
- Aruna Mohanty in “Ashwatthama”
- Reena Jana with “Bihag Pallavi”
- Daksha Mashruwala performing *”Kishalaya Shayana Tale”
- Alok Kanungo in “Patha Chadi De”
- Swapnokalpa Dasgupta closes with “Sakhi He”
All performers received felicitations from the dignitaries.
The event is jointly organised by the Department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture, Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra Odissi Research Centre, and Srujan. Other notable attendees included Culture Department Secretary Dr. Bijay Ketan Upadhyay, Special Secretary Deba Prasad Dash, Odisha Sahitya Akademi Secretary Dr. Chandra Shekhar Hota, and Administrative Officer Suchismita Mantri from the Research Centre.
Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra’s unparalleled role in reviving and globalising Odissi continues to inspire generations of dancers and enthusiasts.
