Nirvan by Lingaraj Pradhan & Disciples

Through hymn, raga, epic narrative, and goddess invocation, this Odissi evening explores the spiritual and philosophical depths of Indian tradition.  

Odissi, one of India’s oldest classical dance traditions, carries a vocabulary of sculptural grace, rhythmic intricacy, and profound spiritual expression. This presentation draws on that language to explore devotion, philosophy, and mythology through four distinct works.

 
The evening opens with Sri Rudrashtakam, the celebrated hymn by Tulsidas that praises Lord Shiva in His many forms – from Mahakala, the fierce destroyer of time, to Shambhu, the compassionate saviour. A lyrical Pallavi in Raag Dev Gandhari follows, where sculptural postures, fluid movements, and intricate rhythmic patterns unfold the raga’s poetic mood.

 
In Abhinaya - Karna, the tragic hero of the Mahabharata voices his questions of justice and destiny in a poignant dialogue with Krishna. The performance concludes with Mahakali Stutee, a stirring invocation of the goddess who embodies creation, nurture, and destruction in her all-encompassing power.

 
Conceived under the guidance of Gurus Bichitrananda Swain, Bijaya Kumar Jena, Ramahari Das, Binod Bihari Panda, Dhaneswar Swain, and Bijay Kumar Barik, the production is performed by Lingaraj Pradhan, Sanjana Gouda, and Sampurna Indu Pani, whose artistry brings together classical rigour and emotional depth.

This performance is supported by Reliance Foundation.