Vaishali Kala Kendra is a pioneering institution in Noida nurturing Odissi dance talent for the last 30 years.
Vaishali Kala Kendra has flourished under the aegis of Guru Jyoti Shrivastava. This institute is not only a dance academy, but a cradle of culture where the ‘ Guru- Shishya’ parampara is followed and the dancers are trained in the Guru Deb Prasad Das style, carrying forward the vision of the late Guru Sri Nath Raut ( the direct disciple of Guru Deb Prasad Das).Vaishali has produced accomplished dancers who have won laurels and have been giving remarkable performances not only in India but all over the world.
Vaishali Kala Kendra presentations are a blend of modern and ancient dance forms keeping the traditions of Odissi flourishing.
The institute has been growing in multidimensional facets and attracts students from the city as well as faraway places in India.Different types of workshops and educational tours are organised with various eminent Gurus to have more exposure and to learn the intricacies of Odissi and it’s roots.
Tête-à-tête with Odissi Guru Dr Jyoti Srivastava
1. We have already started this year 2024. What are your plans regarding your dance projects or events? Is there something new coming up?
Ans:- In 2024, we have plans for Ramayan. As everyone is aware, this is the time for Ram pran pratistha in Ayodhya, and it’s when we immerse ourselves in more Ram bhajans and Ramayan. I’ve collaborated with my students at Vaishali Kala Kendra to present 3 to 4 bhajans, such as Shri Ram Chandra Kripalu Bhajman, Hey Raghunandan Hey Prabhu Ram
And Thumak Chalat Ramchandra
. These popular bhajans have been choreographed in pure Odissi dance, and my students are well-prepared.
Apart from these bhajans, I’ve prepared additional performances, allowing us 10 to 15 minutes for each. However, I don’t believe in limiting our portrayal to just one episode of Ram. One episode doesn’t suffice to capture the essence of Ram’s characteristics. My Ramayana and choreography differ, encompassing a concise 40-minute presentation. We’ve incorporated popular episodes with a unique movement and style.
Our Ramayana is ready with a pure Odissi rendition, and in another, we blend Odissi and Chhau styles with the participation of Chhau dancers. We are gearing up for a production that combines Kuchipudi, Kathak, and Odissi. The portrayal of Ravan and Lanka will be executed by a Kuchipudi dancer, Sita Haran and others by a Kathak dancer, and the remaining by an Odissi dancer. With three productions in planning, rehearsals for this dedicated year to Ram have already begun in 2024.
2. Can you elaborate regarding the research work?
Ans :- Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, I have delved into my collection of old books, including Natya Shastra, Abhinay Chandrika, and Abhinay Darpan. I’ve also explored Sarangdev’s Sangeet Ratnakar and various concepts from different writers about Natya Shastra. For the past three years, I’ve been immersed in reading, but recently, I transitioned into researching how Odissi is influenced by Natya Shasta.
While Gurus mention Natya Shastra, in Odissi culture, we predominantly use Abhinay Darpan and Abhinay Chandrika. This raised confusion, prompting me to delve deeper into these details. My research revealed that Abhinay Chandrika is closely related to Natya Shastra. This became my focal point to demonstrate the direct connection between Odissi and Natya Shastra, highlighting the continued relevance of Natya Shastra in modern times.
The first project based on this research has already been submitted to the Department of Culture, and I hope it is well-received. My intention is to publish this work to emphasize that these ancient Shastras are still pertinent today. In the modern era, where we may feel lost in our research without clear connections to our roots, these books serve as a valuable resource. My aim in reaching out to the press is to make these insights accessible to a broader audience. These books, often found in libraries, should be picked up by people, and I encourage everyone, regardless of their level of expertise, to read them. Patience is key, as understanding may not come instantly, but with time, even a normal person like me can grasp the profound knowledge within these old Shastras.
3.What are your New Year’s resolutions?
Ans:- My New Year’s resolution is to prioritize my health, pursue education, and gain knowledge from old texts and lesser-known gurus who may not be in the limelight. Throughout the year, I plan to travel across India, aiming to meet these gurus with profound knowledge, working diligently in their respective fields.
Of course, dance holds a significant place in my resolutions. I aspire to engage in more dance activities, participate in numerous performances, and focus on showcasing my talent in performances centered around the theme of Ram.
-up18 News
