06/12/2026
The last weekend was truly fulfilling and memorable for all of us at KalpaVriksha USA. We had the honor of organizing a two-day Odissi Dance Workshop conducted by Vidushi Sujata Mohapatra at the KalpaVriksha Dance Studio.
The workshop brought together passionate Odissi dancers from not only the DMV area but also from Canada, Boston, and Texas. Over two enriching days, participants immersed themselves in intensive learning, refining their technique, deepening their understanding of the art form, and experiencing the invaluable guidance of one of the foremost exponents of Odissi.
The enthusiasm, dedication, and spirit of learning displayed by all the participants made the workshop a resounding success. We are grateful to Sujata Apa for her generosity in sharing her knowledge and to every student who traveled near and far to be a part of this special learning experience.
Along with the workshop, we had the privilege of hosting Remembering Guruji, a Baithaki session, and the first event in our series commemorating the Birth Centenary of Padma Vibhushan Guru Sri Kelucharan Mohapatra.
This special interactive session was a humble offering to celebrate Guruji’s extraordinary legacy and his invaluable contributions to Odissi dance. We were deeply blessed to have Vidushi Sujata Mohapatra with us for this occasion. The session was thoughtfully conducted by our esteemed invited guest, Smt Jayanti Ganguly. KalpaVriksha is immensely grateful to Jayanti di for accepting the invitation and conducting this session.
During the session, Sujata Apa shared her cherished memories, profound connection, and invaluable experiences with Guruji. Everyone present was deeply enriched by her heartfelt reminiscences and rare insights, and we will cherish these precious stories and experiences for years to come.
We were also honored by the presence of eminent music and dance critic Smt Manjari Sinha Ji, respected Sri Pratap Das Ji, and distinguished Odissi gurus Sukanya Mukherji Ji and Jayanti Ganguly Ji, all of whom shared their unique experiences, insights, and reflections on Guruji’s life, artistry, and teachings.
The discussions offered rare perspectives on Guruji’s immense contribution to Odissi and Indian classical dance, making the session profoundly enriching, inspiring, and fulfilling for everyone present.
Our hearts are full as we reflect on a weekend of dance, learning, inspiration, and community.
KalpaVriksha, Centre for Performing Arts, remains dedicated to upholding, promoting, and propagating the rich values and traditions of Odissi dance. Remembering Guruji marks the first event in our series commemorating the Birth Centenary of Padma Vibhushan Guru Sri Kelucharan Mohapatra. We look forward to presenting many more meaningful events throughout this centenary year as we continue to celebrate Guruji’s extraordinary legacy and enduring contribution to the world of dance. Stay tuned for upcoming events and offerings.
