Summer camps are slowly gaining popularity amongst the youth and there has been a considerable surge in the number of workshops being organized. Amidst the plethora of activities this summer, we felt compelled to highlight and provide a glimpse to our readers of the Odissi Workshop organized by Odisha Dance Academy, a premier cultural organization of our state.

The workshop focused on the wholesome development of a participant along with a vision to preserve Odisha’s unique culture. It was a mix of dance and highly informative sessions aimed at passing on the legacy of our rich cultural heritage. Eminent personalities from different career backgrounds also participated making it a unique event. Along with performing two awe-inspiring pieces of Odissi dance, students were privileged to meet eminent dignitaries and renowned artists who shared their ideas of choreography, characteristics and mannerisms of this highly revered dance form. They also shared various techniques and briefed the students about the music, the instruments used and the fine thread which binds it all together in harmony!

We attempted to capture the endurance, resolve and passion of these graceful Odissi dancers and these are a few of the photographs which are nothing less than a visual grandeur.

The academy also delivered sessions on body conditioning to avoid dance related injuries. Early morning yoga sessions were a part of the ritual as a focus on wellness and to develop the ability to remain calm and experience tranquility – a very important ingredient for successful Odissi dancers.

The workshop marked its last day with striking performances of the students in an extravagant manner along with live musicians. Set in the premises itself, more than 100 people joined in to celebrate the beauty of Odisha’s oldest dance form!

[Story Courtesy: Dibya Swarupa, Photos by: Pheel Photographer aka Ranvir Deb]

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