Gajendra Panda

🪔 About

Guru Dr. Gajendra Kumar Panda is a distinguished and revered figure in the realm of Odissi dance, known for his mastery, choreography, research, and teaching. Born in 1966 in Lokanathpur village, Ganjam district, Odisha, his artistic journey began at the age of nine when he trained as a Sakhipila under Guru Raghunath Purohit. At eleven, he came under the tutelage of the legendary Guru Debaprasad Das, whose guidance profoundly shaped his artistic vision and dedication to Odissi. Dr. Panda is a foremost custodian of the Guru Debaprasad Das parampara (lineage) of Odissi, zealously preserving and expanding its artistic legacy. He holds Nrutya Visharad and Nrutya Alankar degrees from Akhil Bharatiya Gandharva Mahavidyalaya Mandal, Mumbai. He is renowned for his mastery of Sabdaswara-Patta, a technique introduced into Odissi by his guru, and his ability to create stunning sculptural choreography inspired by temple architecture, blending traditional elements with innovative creativity. His style integrates tribal, folk, and classical streams, reflecting the broader culture of Odisha. As the Director of Tridhara – Odissi Dance Academy, founded by his guru, Guru Gajendra Panda leads its choreographing, performing, and teaching efforts, nurturing countless disciples. He has performed and conducted workshops internationally in over twenty countries, including the USA, Japan, Dubai, and the Netherlands. Dr. Panda is also an ICCR-qualified Odissi Dance Teacher and Performer for international assignments and an empanelled “B High grade” artist of Doordarshan. He frequently organizes festivals like the Guru Debaprasad Award Festival and Swarna Samaroha to promote Odissi and honor artists. Awards & Honours: Odisha Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, Senior Fellowship, Honorary Doctorate in Odissi Dance, Nrutya Visharad, Nrutya Alankar.