Nivedita Jena

🪔 About

Nivedita Jena stands as an accomplished figure in the realm of Indian classical Odissi dance, distinguished by her profound dedication to the art form and her active role in its global propagation. Her significant contributions and talent were formally recognized with the prestigious "National Junior fellowship" in Odissi Dance, bestowed by The Center for Cultural Resources and Training (CCRT) under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, New Delhi. This fellowship underscores her potential and commitment to preserving and advancing Odissi. Jena's artistic journey is marked by extensive and rigorous training under the guidance of several highly revered gurus in the Indian classical dance tradition. Her mentors include luminaries such as Padma Vibhushan Guru Sonal Mansingh, Padma Shri Guru Geeta Chandran, Guru Santosh Nair, Guru Maitreyee Pahari, and Guru Jayaprabha Menon, among other esteemed teachers. Learning from such stalwarts has undoubtedly shaped her nuanced understanding and expressive capabilities in Odissi. Complementing her practical training, Nivedita Jena pursued formal academic qualifications in dance. She earned a Bachelor's in Performing Arts from Pracheen Kala Kendra, Chandigarh, completing her studies between 2005 and 2006. Demonstrating her continuous pursuit of excellence, she further qualified by passing the Visharad Pratham Exam in 2022 from Gandharv Mahavidhyalay Mandal, Mumbai. Beyond her personal performance and training, Nivedita Jena has actively contributed to the dance community through teaching and institution building. She founded and successfully led the 'Nrityakaya' Institute for dance and art in Bangalore, where she dedicated three years to spreading the intricate beauty of the Odissi dance form. Her commitment extends to social causes, as evidenced by her association with 'Prayas', an NGO focused on specially-abled children. Through this collaboration, she imparts dance training and helps these children develop essential skills for public performances, fostering their confidence and artistic expression. In a significant move to broaden the reach of Indian culture, Nivedita Jena has recently relocated to Sweden, where she continues her mission to share the rich heritage of Odissi dance internationally. Awards & Honours: National Junior fellowship in Odissi Dance.