New Delhi: In the grand tapestry of Indian classical dance, one name stands out like a beacon—Guru Mayadhar Raut, the pioneering force behind the revival of Odissi dance.
Hailed as the Father of Odissi, he played a pivotal role in codifying, redefining, and structuring the dance form, breathing new life into its ancient roots.
With his deep knowledge of the Shastras, he placed Odissi firmly on the classical map in the 1950s.
Born on July 6, 1930, in Orissa, Raut’s tryst with Gotipua dance began at the tender age of seven. By 1944, he had already made waves as the first dancer to present Gotipua dance on stage. His journey took a defining turn in 1952 when he co-founded Kala Vikas Kendra in Cuttack and became its first Odissi Guru. It was the first institution in India to formally teach Odissi, planting the seeds for a movement that would soon flourish.
Not one to rest on his laurels, Raut, along with his contemporaries, established the Jayantika Association in 1959. This collective effort laid the cornerstone for the classical framework of Odissi, integrating Sanchari Bhava, Mudra Viniyoga, and Rasa Theory into its fabric.
His groundbreaking choreography of Geetagovinda Ashtapadis like Pashyati Dishi Dishi, Priya Charu Shile, and Sakhi showcased Odissi’s depth and emotive prowess.In 1968, Raut shifted base to Delhi, where his influence only grew. He helmed the Odissi Department at Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra from 1970 to 1995, shaping generations of dancers.
His contribution to Indian culture was further cemented when Kamani Auditorium was inaugurated with his Geetagovinda performance in 1971. His mission to spread Odissi took him to more than 35 countries, where he left no stone unturned in promoting this art form. His school, Jayantika – Mayadhar Raut School of Odissi Dance, now has teaching centers across the globe.
A guru in every sense of the word, his disciples have made their mark in the dance world, with five of them receiving the prestigious Padma awards. Despite accolades pouring in from all quarters—including the Padma Shri, Tagore Akademi Ratna (2011), Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1985), and Bharat Ke Sangeet Ratna Award (2007)—Raut remained the epitome of humility. Till his death, he was upholding the guru-shishya parampara, shunning commercialism in favor of preserving tradition.
Even as Odissi evolves with the times, Guru Mayadhar Raut remained its steadfast custodian—a guiding star who would prefer the shadows but continue to illuminate the path for generations to come. His legacy is not just etched in history but also dances gracefully in the footsteps of his disciples, ensuring that the rhythm of Odissi never fades into oblivion.
This legendary Odissi dance maestro breathed his last at his Delhi home on February 22. He was 92.
As his death news spread, condolence messages started pouring in.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi took to his X handle to condole Raut’s death.“I am saddened to hear the news of the demise of eminent Odissi dancer and Padma Shri awardee Guru Mayadhar Raut. His demise is an irreparable loss to the world of Odissi dance. His lifelong contribution in enriching Odissi dance with classical knowledge and enhancing the glory of Odissi dance at the national and international levels will be remembered forever. I pray for the eternal peace of his soul and express my condolences to the bereaved family,” read the post in Odia.
In a social media post, Guru Ratikant Mohapatra wrote, “With profound sorrow, we all at Srjan mourn the passing of Guru Mayadhar Rout, a legendary figure in Odissi dance. His unwavering dedication, artistic brilliance, and deep wisdom have left an everlasting impact. His presence will be dearly missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations. My heartfelt condolences to his family, disciples, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his soul find eternal peace.”
“Another legends leaves this world. We have lost Guru Mayadhar Raut (sic),” wrote Odissi dancer Rohini Dandavate in a social media post.
The legendary guru’s mortal remains were consigned to flames at the Lodhi road crematorium on February 22.
While he is survived by his daughter and Odissi dancer Madhumita Raut, sons Manoj and Manmath Raut, his wife Mamta Raut predeceased him by eight years.
