Renowned Odissi maestro Mayadhar Raut, often called the “Father of Odissi dance,” passed away on February 22, 2025, at the age of 92 in his home in Delhi. His family confirmed that he died peacefully due to old age. A recipient of the Padma Shri award, Raut played a crucial role in the revival and codification of Odissi dance during the 1950s. His contributions, such as the introduction of Sanchari Bhava, Mudra Viniyoga, and Rasa Theory, were pivotal in shaping Odissi into a structured classical dance form.
Key Contributions and Life Achievements of Mayadhar Raut
Early Life & Training
- Born on July 6, 1933, in Odisha.
- Began training in Gotipua, a precursor to Odissi, at age 7.
- Became the first to perform Gotipua on stage in 1944.
Notable Positions & Choreographies
- Headed the Odissi department at Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra (1970-1995).
- Choreographed Gitagovinda, which inaugurated Kamani Auditorium, Delhi, in 1971.
- Trained renowned Odissi dancers like Ramani Ranjan Jena, Aloka Panikar, and Geeta Mahalik.
Major Awards & Recognitions
- Orissa Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1977)
- Sahitya Kala Parishad Award (1984)
- Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1985)
- Rajiv Gandhi Sadbhavana Award (2003)
- Upendra Bhanja Samman (2005)
- Tagore Akademi Ratna (2011)
- Conferred the Padma Shri for his immense contributions to Odissi dance.
