Jaipur: The 11th edition of the “Nrityam” festival was held at Jawahar Kala Kendra on the occasion of World Dance Day, organized by the Agrawal Educational Cultural and Welfare Society. The event celebrated the beauty and depth of Indian classical dance through a series of captivating performances by renowned artists and their disciples.
The highlight of the evening was the honouring of eminent Odissi exponent Guru Dr. Gajendra Kumar Panda with the prestigious Guru Girdhari Maharaj Kala Ratna Award. He was felicitated with a cash prize of ₹51,000, a copper plaque, and a shawl in recognition of his remarkable contribution to the field of dance.
The event began with a Devi Vandana, followed by a pure Kathak presentation in Teentaal by students Snehal, Charvi, Sanskriti, Bhavna, Ishika, and Aayana. Their performance featured intricate tatkaar, tukdas, and graceful spins, perfectly synchronized with tabla rhythms.
Dr. Swati Agrawal then presented a Krishna Vandana based on the composition “Nagar Nat Nirat Karat,” beautifully portraying Lord Krishna in his enchanting dancing form as the ‘Nagar Nat.’ This was followed by a powerful Chaturang performance by Ritvika, Aaradhya, Soumya, Jaya, Prasanna, Aarvi, Shirsha, and Divija.
A Tarana by Aditi, Drishti, Shiny, Akshita, Avni, and Maanvi stood out for its complex footwork, swift spins, and intricate rhythm patterns, reflecting a fine blend of tradition and technical brilliance.
Guru Dr. Gajendra Kumar Panda presented two special Odissi performances. His solo act depicted a striking episode from poet Upendra Bhanja’s “Mana Uddharana,” illustrating Lord Jagannath rescuing Gajendra and Draupadi. In a duet with his disciple Aanchal Pandey, he presented the divine concept of Ardhanarishwara, symbolizing the unity of Shiva and Parvati through the harmonious blend of Tandava and Lasya.
The event concluded with mesmerizing presentations of Ganesh Vandana, Shiva Stuti infused with Tandava energy, and Tarana, creating a grand and memorable finale.
Distinguished guests included dance guru Dr. Shashi Sankhla and Dr. Jyoti Bharti Goswami. The program was elegantly anchored by Pranay Bhardwaj.
The evening stood as a vibrant celebration of classical dance, devotion, and artistic excellence.