Bhubaneswar: Adiguru Odissi Gurukul is set to host the 13th edition of the Adiguru Padma Shri Pankaj Charan Das Award Festival and Prativa Pratiyogita at Utkal Rangamanch, GKCM Odissi Research Centre, Xavier Square, Bhubaneswar, on October 16.
With an objective to preserving, promoting, and celebrating the rich heritage of Odissi, the classical dance form of Odisha, while carrying forward the invaluable legacy of the legendary Odissi maestro, Padma Shri Adiguru Pankaj Charan Das, Adiguru Odissi Gurukul was established by the maestro’s elder son Sri Basanta Kumar Das in 2008.
Over the years, the institution has worked to uphold the purity and dignity of the classical dance form while providing aspiring artistes with opportunities to hone their skills and earn recognition.
Besides organizing workshops and seminars, the institution also hosts ‘Adiguru Padma Shri Pankaj Charan Das Award Festival’ and ‘Prativa Pratiyogita’, a talent hunt, every year.
Adiguru Padma Shri Pankaj Charan Das made an extraordinary contribution to the development and enrichment of Odissi dance. His artistic vision, distinctive dance style, unwavering dedication, and commitment to the Guru-Shishya Parampara continue to inspire generations of dancers and cultural practitioners.
The annual festival is organised to honour his memory, celebrate his remarkable contribution to Indian classical dance, while recognising distinguished artists who have dedicated themselves to the promotion of Odissi.
The festival is being organised under the guidance and leadership of Guru Smt. Pallavi Das, granddaughter of Adiguru Padma Shri Pankaj Charan Das and the third-generation representative of his artistic legacy.
Over the years, the festival has carved out a niche for itself in the cultural landscape of the state. Its emphasis on artistic excellence, disciplined presentation and adherence to classical traditions has earned it the appreciation of art connoisseurs and audiences alike.
This year, the festival will unfold in two sessions. The afternoon session will commence at 3:00 PM with the Adiguru Pankaj Charan Das Prativa Pratiyogita 2026. Young and aspiring Odissi dancers will participate in this competition to showcase their artistic abilities, technical skills, dedication, and understanding of the classical dance tradition.The competition aims to encourage young talent, create a platform for emerging performers, and inspire the next generation to pursue Odissi with discipline, devotion, and dedication.
The evening session will begin at 6:30 PM, featuring the formal award ceremony and cultural presentations.This year, the prestigious Adiguru Padma Shri Pankaj Charan Das Award will be conferred upon Guru Sushree Minakshi Behera, an eminent Odissi dance exponent, in recognition of her contribution to the field of Odissi dance.
The programme will open with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, followed by a heartfelt tribute to Adiguruji. Students of Adiguru Odissi Gurukul will present Mangalacharan, while distinguished artistes will add to the evening’s cultural splendour with a series of captivating classical dance performances.
Adiguru Odissi Gurukul has extended a cordial invitation to distinguished cultural personalities, artistes, art lovers, students, parents, and members of the print, electronic and digital media to attend this significant cultural occasion and be part of this tribute to an iconic figure in Odisha’s cultural heritage.
