Abstract

Among the classical dances, Odissi is one of the major classical dances. With time, the dance performances of various Odissi gurus spread Odissi dance outside India and other countries. Like other Indian classical dances in Bangladesh, Odissi dance is also growing in popularity. In 1985, Padma Vibhushan Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra's illustrious disciple, Smt. Sanjukta Panigrahi received the first Odissi classical dance promotion. In 1989 Smt. Sani Mahapatra first popularized Odissi dance in the dance style of Guru Kelucharan Mahapatra in Bangladesh. At present Odissi dance has been attached to the dance department in Bangladesh University of Dhaka. Also, Odissi training is being given at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, Indian High Commission, IGCCR, Shanta Mariam Private University, and various institutions. As a result, the promotion and expansion of Odissi dance have been significantly noticeable in the past few years. This paper is an attempt to evaluate the present situation of Odissi dance in post post-independent era in Bangladesh.