Bengaluru Odissi dancer Madhulita Mohapatra: Bridging cultures through dance; recognised globally

Sowmya Raju | NT

Bengaluru: Madhulita Mohapatra, an Odissi dancer and recipient of prestigious awards such as the Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar from the Central Sangeet Natak Akademi and the Kempegowda Award, has cemented her position as one of the leading exponents of Odissi in South India.

With an 'A' grade artiste designation from the National Doordarshan and recognition from institutions like the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, Mohapatra's journey in the realm of classical dance is marked by accolades and achievements.

Recently honoured at the UK Parliament with the IIW She Inspires Awards 2024, Mohapatra shared her experience with News Trail.

Reflecting on the experience, she expressed profound gratitude for being recognised on foreign soil, emphasising the significance of Indian classical art's global reach.

The event, organised by Inspiring Indian Women (IIW) to celebrate International Women's Day, added to the significance of the occasion.

She said, “I felt deeply grateful and overjoyed to have received this wonderful recognition in the presence of honourable MPs, dignitaries and other incredible artistes.”

For Mohapatra, the award holds immense personal and professional significance, affirming the resonance of her art with audiences and opening doors to greater opportunities.

She shared with pride and joy, “The thought of my art transcending borders and being appreciated on foreign soil is truly heartening. It is a testament to the universal appeal of Indian classical art and I feel fortunate to contribute to its outreach.”

Born in Bhawanipatna, Odisha, Mohapatra's journey into dance began with Sambalpuri folk dance, later transitioning to Odissi under the guidance of Guru Krushnachandra Sahoo.

Despite initial challenges and a lack of family support, her passion for dance remained unwavering.

After completing her education and working in a corporate job, Mohapatra eventually dedicated herself full-time to Odissi, moving to Bengaluru where she founded Nrityantar, her Odissi dance institution.

Mohapatra blends tradition with innovation in her artistic approach, influenced by luminaries like Guru Aruna Mohanty. Her performances address societal issues, emphasising gender equality and cultural diversity.

She credits resilience and dedication for overcoming challenges, underscoring the importance of perseverance in pursuing one's passion.

To aspiring dancers and performers in Bengaluru and aworldwide she urges, “I can affirm that the path of an artiste is a challenging and an enduring one, devoid of shortcuts or instant solutions. Yet, with unwavering dedication, and humility, one can surmount every obstacle and achieve their aspirations.”

Having a broad social mind she shared, “Beyond dance, I'm deeply passionate about various causes, including gender equality, women's empowerment, social and economic equality, child rights and welfare, and promoting education as a fundamental right for all. These issues resonate deeply with me as I believe they are essential for fostering a better and more equitable world.”

Mohapatra envisions a future where Odissi dance continues to grow, appreciate, and become more accessible across India and beyond.

With initiatives like Nrityagram and institutions like Nrityantar leading the way, she hopes to see Indian classical dances integrated into educational curriculums, ensuring their preservation and appreciation for future generations.

Her vision is one of inclusivity, accessibility, and enduring cultural significance, where the beauty and grace of Odissi continue to inspire and uplift.