New Delhi, Dec-07: In a mesmerizing display of grace, poise, and artistic virtuosity, the annual Odissi dance performance, Samarpan, choreographed by the renowned Odissi dance guru Sruti Barua and performed by her accomplished disciples, captivated hundreds of spectators at the Bipin Chandra Pal Memorial Bhavan in New Delhi. This captivating event marked the culmination of 21 years of NrityaNarta’s legacy, Sruti Barua’s institute of Odissi Dance.
Samarpan, meaning “absolute surrender,” eloquently captured the essence of a dancer’s unwavering devotion to their art, their guru, their deities, their parents, and the audience. The performance unfolded with a series of exquisitely choreographed pieces, each imbued with profound artistry and executed with impeccable precision. The dancers, ranging from 7 to 20 years old, captivated the audience with their graceful movements, intricate footwork, and expressive storytelling.
The performance commenced with an invocation to the revered guru, Guruvenamah, followed by the auspicious Manglacharan, setting the stage for a journey of spiritual and artistic exploration. The dancers then captivated the audience with their renditions of Battu, Chandana Charchita, Moksha, Shri Ram Chandra, Basant Pallavi, Jata Kata, and Guru Vashtkam. Each piece showcased the dancers’ mastery of Odissi’s intricate nuances, their ability to seamlessly blend rhythm, posture, and facial expressions to convey a symphony of emotions.
Gracing the event with their esteemed presence were Justice Geeta Mittal (Retd.), Mrs. Seema Jere Bisht, IRS Director General, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, Ministry of Finance, GOI, and the world-renowned Kathak dancers Padmashree Nalini and Kamalini. The audience, comprising art enthusiasts, patrons of the dance, and aficionados of Odissi, erupted in thunderous applause, deeply moved by the performance’s sheer brilliance and emotional resonance.
Sruti Barua, a distinguished performer and choreographer with three decades of experience in classical Odissi dance, emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting India’s rich cultural heritage. “Culture is the bedrock of our identity, shaping us as individuals and as a nation,” Sruti Barua remarked. “Our classical dance and music forms are invaluable treasures that we must nurture and pass on to future generations.”
Samarpan served as a heartwarming tribute to the enduring legacy of Odissi dance and the unwavering dedication of Sruti Barua and her disciples. The performance left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of the audience, leaving them spellbound by the beauty and grace of Odissi dance.
