In a moment of pride for the world of Indian classical dance, President Droupadi Murmu presented the prestigious Padma Shri award to Shri Durga Charan Ranbir, a distinguished Odissi dancer and guru, during a ceremony in New Delhi.
The award, conferred on April 28, 2025, recognises Ranbir’s exceptional contributions to Odissi, a classical dance form that embodies the cultural and spiritual heritage of Odisha. With a career spanning over four decades, Ranbir has played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting this ancient art form, earning him a revered place among India’s most celebrated cultural icons.
The Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian honour, was awarded to 113 recipients in 2025, celebrating distinguished contributions across various fields. Ranbir, one of the most senior gurus in Odissi, was lauded for his lifelong dedication to the dance form, which has its roots in the temple traditions of Odisha and is known for its intricate footwork, expressive gestures, and storytelling inspired by Hindu mythology.
Born into a family with a deep connection to Odissi, Durga Charan Ranbir began his training under the tutelage of legendary gurus Debaprasad Das and Pankaj Charan Das, pioneers who spearheaded the revival of Odissi in the mid-20th century. At the time, the dance form had been on the brink of extinction due to centuries of colonial suppression and societal shifts. Following the style of his guru, Debaprasad Das, Ranbir honed his craft, blending tradition with innovation to captivate audiences worldwide. Over the years, he has trained countless students, ensuring the legacy of Odissi endures for future generations.
“I am very happy and feel blessed for this honour. My entire family and students are happy and congratulating me,” Ranbir had expressed earlier this year when his name was announced among the Padma Shri recipients on January 26, 2025. His contributions have not only preserved Odissi but also elevated its global stature, earning him accolades such as the Orissa Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and numerous other honours throughout his career.
Odissi, one of India’s nine classical dance forms as recognised by the Cultural Ministry of India, has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. Originally performed by temple dancers known as mahari in devotion to Lord Jagannath, the dance form faced decline during British rule but was revitalised post-independence by luminaries like Pankaj Charan Das, Kelucharan Mohapatra, and Debaprasad Das. Ranbir’s work has continued this legacy, bridging the past and present through his performances and teachings.
Alongside Ranbir, other notable figures honoured with the Padma Shri this year include Bollywood singer Arijit Singh, comedian Ashok Saraf, and Grammy-winning musician Ricky Kej, reflecting the diversity of talent in India. The awards serve as a reminder of the country’s rich cultural tapestry and the individuals who keep its traditions alive.
For Durga Charan Ranbir, the Padma Shri is not just a personal milestone but a tribute to the art of Odissi and the countless artists who have nurtured it over the centuries. As he continues to inspire students and audiences alike, his legacy stands as a testament to the enduring power of classical dance in uniting communities and preserving India’s cultural heritage.
