On the eve of September 20, 2023, the stage came alive with the graceful movements of six Odissi dancers, including myself. The air was filled with anticipation and excitement as we embarked on a journey of devotion, performing “Namo Ganesha” as an offering to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the beloved son of Maa Girija.
Odissi, a classical dance form that traces its roots to the ancient temples of Odisha, is not merely a dance but a divine expression of art and spirituality. Under the guidance of my revered guruma, Devjani Sen, I had the privilege of delving into the intricacies of this enchanting dance form, and “Namo Ganesha” marked my maiden performance in the world of Odissi.
The performance commenced with the rhythmic beats of the mardala, creating an atmosphere of reverence. As the spotlight illuminated the stage, we, the dancers, entered with a sense of purpose and dedication. The dance unfolded like a story, each movement a chapter, weaving together the tales of Lord Ganesha’s benevolence and power.
The choice of “Namo Ganesha” was deliberate, for we sought the blessings of the Vighna Vinashak, the one who obliterates obstacles. Lord Ganesha, depicted as the son of Maa Girija, became the focal point of our dance, symbolizing the divine connection between a mother and her child. Through every gesture, every twirl, we aimed to invoke his divine presence and seek his guidance in our artistic journey and life’s path.
The choreography was a beautiful amalgamation of intricate footwork, expressive hand movements, and captivating facial expressions – the hallmark of Odissi. Each dancer moved in harmony, a testament to the rigorous training and dedication instilled by Guruma Devjani Sen. As we moved through the various mudras and postures, it felt like a conversation with the divine, a silent prayer conveyed through the language of dance.
For me, personally, this performance marked a significant milestone in my artistic journey. The stage, once a distant dream, became a reality under the nurturing guidance of Guruma Devjani Sen. Her wisdom, patience, and relentless dedication to the art of Odissi have sculpted not just dancers but devotees of this divine form.
The applause that followed our performance was not just a validation of our skill but a recognition of the devotion and hard work that went into every practice session. It was a humbling experience to receive the audience’s appreciation, knowing that our dance had touched their hearts and perhaps stirred a connection with the divine.
As I reflect on this memorable evening, I am filled with gratitude – to my guruma, to my fellow dancers, and to the divine energy that guided us on stage. “Namo Ganesha” was not just a performance; it was a spiritual journey, a communion of art and devotion. And as I take my first steps in the world of Odissi, I carry with me the blessings of Lord Ganesha and the invaluable teachings of Guruma Devjani Sen, knowing that this is just the beginning of a lifelong odyssey in the realm of classical dance.