Bhubaneswar: In a celebration of talent and dedication, the Sangeet Natak Akademi recently announced the recipients of the prestigious Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar for the years 2022 and 2023, recognizing the outstanding contributions of Odissi dancers Arupa Gayatri Panda and Debasish Pattnaik, respectively. The awards stand as a testament to their unwavering commitment and exceptional prowess in the world of classical dance.
Hailing from Bhubaneswar, Arupa Gayatri Panda has not only mastered the intricate moves of Odissi dance but has also become a global ambassador for the art form. The Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar-2022 is a well-deserved acknowledgment of her achievements as a promising young artist.
As a dynamic and award-winning dancer, Arupa has consistently been recognized as one of the most promising young Odissi dancers of her generation. Over the past two decades, she has dedicated herself to not only performing but also teaching Odissi dance. Her journey has taken her to some of the world’s most prestigious platforms and festivals across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, promoting both Odissi dance and Odia culture.
Arupa’s connection with Odissi goes beyond the physical realm; it’s a spiritual journey. “The classical dance form has completed me and given meaning to my existence. It connects me with God,” she shares. Her unending love and devotion to Lord Jagannath are intricately woven into her dance, making Odissi a profound expression of her faith and cultural identity.
Expressing her gratitude upon receiving the Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar, Arupa acknowledges, “This award is not just a personal triumph but also a testament to the collective effort and love of everyone who has been a part of my journey.”
Debasish Pattnaik, a gold medalist in Nrutyabhaskar (Masters in Odissi dance), is a beacon of inspiration for those who aspire to pursue their passion against all odds. From a young age, Debasish has immersed himself in the world of Odissi dance, earning accolades and admiration for his solo performances and collaborations with esteemed organizations.
Believing in dance as a medium for personal and societal expression, Debasish sees art as a means to explore the facets of Nritta, Nritya, Natya, and spiritual emancipation (moksha). Beyond Odissi, he has also delved into Kathak, Sambhalpuri Folk dance, and Free-style dance, showcasing his versatility as a dancer.
His belief in dance as a medium to express creativity and inspire others is evident in his role as the founder of the DebNrutyam Dance School. Through his academy, he aims to popularize Odissi dance and impart its beauty to a new generation of students.
Humble beginnings marked Debasish’s journey, facing challenges as a boy learning Odissi in a middle-class family. “Learning Odissi dance for a boy was a challenge back in those days. Still, I struggled a lot, convincing my family to allow me to follow my love for the dance,” he shares.
Receiving the Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar-2023 holds deep significance for Debasish. “This award is really special for me. I feel like it’s a blessing from my years of hard work, and it’s motivating to keep up my work and let Odissi dance reach different arenas,” he expresses.
Now settled in Bangalore, Debasish is focused on spreading the rich heritage of Odissi dance. “Through my dance academy, I am trying to popularize the dance and teach more students,” he affirms.
As Arupa Gayatri Panda and Debasish Pattnaik bask in the glory of their well-deserved awards, their journeys continue to inspire aspiring dancers and contribute to the timeless legacy of Odissi dance on the global stage.