Deepika Singh Honors Odissi Mentors
Deepika Singh honors her mentors, celebrating ancestry and art in odissi dance with grace.
Image: Instagram
Deepika Singh, widely recognized for her on-screen charisma, has taken a deeply personal turn on social media. In a recent Instagram post, she expressed heartfelt gratitude for her teachers who guided her in mastering the art of Odissi, one of India’s oldest classical dance forms. Through her touching words and evocative images, the actress highlighted the importance of mentorship and tradition in keeping ancient art forms alive.
Odissi Dance: A Timeless Legacy
Odissi, believed to have been performed since as early as the 2nd century BCE, is not just an art form but a vibrant link to India’s rich cultural heritage. Rooted in temple traditions and inspired by the sculptures of Odisha’s ancient temples, Odissi features distinctive postures such as the Chowka and Tribhangi, alongside delicate gestures involving the feet, hands, eyes, neck, and torso movements. Deepika’s post reminds fans of the dance’s storied past, emphasizing how its revival in the 20th century was made possible by stalwarts like Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra and other renowned gurus.
Gratitude And Mentorship
In her post, Deepika Singh showered thanks on her mentor, Sanatan SC sir, for his continuous guidance and unwavering support in learning the traditional dance form. She also expressed her appreciation for Sujata Mohapatra and Preetisha Mohapatra, whose workshops and tutelage in choreographies contributed significantly to her journey in Odissi. By acknowledging these influences, Deepika not only celebrates her own growth but also pays homage to the legacy of teachers who have preserved this intricate dance tradition.
Deepika’s message resonates deeply with anyone who understands that behind every accomplished artist lies a network of devoted mentors. Her appreciative tone serves as a reminder that dedication to craft and humility in learning are inseparable. The post, featuring a series of beautifully captured images by photographer SK_.click, also highlights the cultural aesthetics of Odissi – with makeup artistry by Durgesh and hairstyling by Makeup Mantra by Reeta, set under the meticulous management of Lacele Brite and Raajesh Shandilya.
The Art Form’s Journey
Odissi is not merely a dance; it is a narrative of historical evolution. Originally performed by temple dancers known as Maharis, and later by boys in the Gotipua tradition, this classical dance form carries centuries of socio-religious significance. Deepika’s articulation of Odissi’s origins serves as an informative snapshot of the dance’s transformation over millennia—from a devotional ritual to a celebrated performance art revived by dedicated scholars and practitioners in modern times.
Deepika’s post is reminiscent of her earlier expressions of gratitude. In one of her past Instagram updates, she reflected on the influence of her teachers and loved ones in shaping her as a dancer. That earlier post also emphasized that behind every dancer lies a supportive circle comprised of mentors, family, and friends. This recurring theme of gratitude reinforces her belief that art is nurtured in a community, where each contributor plays an essential role in the artist’s journey.
A Celebration Of Heritage And Modern Expression
While Deepika is best known for her roles in film, her foray into classical arts underlines a multi-dimensional persona that bridges contemporary celebrity with traditional roots. Her distinct dance journey casts a spotlight on the importance of preserving and promoting India’s classical dance forms. By embracing both her modern career and ancient tradition, she creates a compelling narrative that appeals to both young audiences and connoisseurs of classical art.
The visuals accompanying her post capture moments of grace and the inherent beauty of Odissi. They echo the expressive nature of the dance—each gesture, every nuanced movement, and the spirit of rhythmic performance. This celebration of classical dance through a modern lens underscores how ancient arts continue to inspire and shape the identities of today’s cultural icons.
Deepika Singh’s tribute is a reminder that learning and cultivating traditional art forms require persistence, respect, and an enduring connection to one’s cultural roots. Her message extends well beyond personal thanks; it is an invitation to her followers and art enthusiasts to acknowledge and honor the legacies that shape our cultural narratives.
In sharing her journey, Deepika joins the ranks of celebrated artists who have, time and again, demonstrated that art can be a bridge between past and present. Her dedicated expression of gratitude not only elevates the status of classical dance but also inspires a greater appreciation for the teachers who kept these traditions alive through the generations.
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