Odissi dance enthrals audience in Ludhiana
Students of schools run by BCM Management attend event
Traditional Odissi dance form, originating from Odisha, enthralled the audience at local schools during special event organised by Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music And Culture Amongst Youth’s (SPIC MACAY) Ludhiana chapter.
The performances, supported by Vardhman Special Steels Limited, were organised at the four schools run by BCM Management as part of the Vardhman Steel Classical Series.
The session began with an introduction to the classical dance form, Odissi, tracing its origins to Odisha and its association with Lord Jagannath. The artist, Vidushi Kavita Dwibedi, explained how the dance was traditionally performed in temples by female dancers, known as Devadasis, and later evolved through the Gotipua tradition.
Students were introduced to the eight classical dance forms of India and distinctive features of Odissi in terms of costume, silver jewellery and sculptural body alignment. The fundamental postures of Chauka and Tribhanga, and movements of the neck, eyes and facial expressions were demonstrated to give students technical insights into the dance form.
The performance commenced with Mangalacharan, an invocatory piece in praise of Goddess Saraswati.
The second presentation, Battu, was a dance composition highlighting the technical brilliance of Odissi, showcasing Chauka, Tribhanga, intricate footwork and sculptural poses.
The event concluded with an expressive abhinaya piece — the Oriya bhajan “Ahe Neela Saila.” The composition narrates the devotion of poet Salabega, a Muslim devotee of Lord Vishnu, who remained steadfast in his faith despite suffering from leprosy. Through his devotion and remembrance of the Lord, he was blessed and healed.
During the interactive segment, the artist explained the concept of the navarasas (nine emotions).
Sharing her experience, Dwibedi said it was her first visit to Ludhiana and she was happy with the enthusiasm, curiosity and participation of the students. She said their positive energy made the performance even more fulfilling for her.
Sangita B Kushwaha, national executive and coordinator, SPIC MACAY Punjab, delved into the society’s vision and contribution in nurturing young minds through exposure to India’s rich classical heritage. She expressed gratitude to director Amitava Ghosh for introducing SPIC MACAY Heritage Clubs across all four schools under BCM Management.
