Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra Award

The man who almost single-handedly resurrected Odissi dance from near extinction, is no more. The man who spent a life time grooming disciples of the caliber of Sanjukta Panigrahi, Kumkum Mohanty, Sonal Mansingh, Madhavi Mudgal and countless others, is no more. The man who started life as an impoverished mason and rose to merit a Padmabibhushan award, is no more.

The legend breathed his last at the age of 79 (on date 7th April 2004), having lived a life enriched by the constant need to create aesthetic beauty in dance and in everything else he touched. The details of his life are known to many people in this country and abroad; in his passing, Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra has left behind vibrant memories that will stay with us for a life-time. Such men are rare and will not be easily forgotten.

Paramount among the many initiatives closest to his heart was the annual "Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra Award" and in memoriam, we remember his affection and abiding concern for fellow artistes and colleagues in Dance, Theater, Music & Cinema.

Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra Award has been instituted in the year 1995 by Sri Ratikant Mohapatrta, Derector of Srjan to confer recognition on an individual for his contribution to extensive areas in the performing arts. Achievements in these areas are attributable to one's sincerity, self-confidence, and perseverance. However, in spite of these enduring qualities, dreams are sometimes shattered due to inadequate finance, illness, improper food etc. Many great achievers have experienced this in their struggle to carve out a niche for themselves.

Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra is no exception. Born in an impoverished family, Kelucharan played the roles of a servant, labour, mason, actor and dancer to make both ends meet. This award is meant for people who have reached the top but not necessarily financially. The award will be given in cash of Rs 25,000/- in each field along with a citation for lifetime achievement. Four such awards are presented each year, to acclaimed artistes from the areas of Dance, Theater, Music & Cinema.

The underlying principle of this award is to generate a fellow feeling amongst the performing artistes who can, individually and severally, focus all their energies into taking their art to splendid heights.

It is now left to us to extend Guruji's priceless legacy in performing, teaching and in recognizing due artistic merit in our environment. Since the Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra Award was instituted with precisely this in mind, it is our sacred responsibility to organize the event with the flair that Guruji always expected of us. And in this effort we need your good wishes and generous support. Your help will also nourish the feeling that we, at SRJAN, are not alone in carrying out Guruji's fond wishes, after his passing.