The Department of Mass Communication at Karim City College organised a captivating lecture-cum-demonstration session on Odissi classical dance, leaving the college auditorium brimming with cultural vibrancy. The event, supported by SPIC MACAY, featured a mesmerising presentation by internationally acclaimed Odissi dancer, Janhabi Behera.
The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, symbolizing the illumination of knowledge and art. Dignitaries present included Dr. Mohammed Zakaria, Secretary of Karimia Trust and Director of Education, Karimia Educational Complex, Dr. BN Tripathi, Controller of Examinations, Professor Dr. Neha Tiwari, Incharge of Mass Communication Department, Bharti Banerjee, Regional Coordinator of SPIC MACAY, and the guest of honor, Janhabi Behera.
Janhabi Behera, hailing from Bhubaneswar, adeptly introduced students to the expressive language of Odissi dance, elucidating its historical origins and encouraging active participation. Following this insightful introduction, she graced the audience with a captivating performance, accompanied by Harpriya Swain (singing), Soumya Ranjan (mardal), and Ashish Kumar (violin).
The performance included a divine prayer to Lord Jagannath, a depiction of Sita's abduction, and the demonstration of Panchatattva. The audience was treated to a beautiful portrayal of the joyful dialogue between the hero and heroine during the celebratory season of rain.
Dr. Zakaria, in his address, emphasized the profound nature of dance, stating that when every part of the body becomes a tongue, it transforms into a dance. Dr. BN Tripathi highlighted the importance of preserving various folk and classical dance traditions in India, expressing the duty of safeguarding these cultural treasures.
Bhartiya Banerjee, Regional Coordinator of SPIC MACAY, commended Karim City College's commitment to nurturing art and literature. Dr. Mohammad Riaz, the Principal of Karim City College, extended his congratulations to the Mass Communication Department for the successful execution of the program.
Students from all departments enthusiastically participated in the event, with a strong turnout of faculty members. Dr. Neha Tiwari, Chairperson of the Mass Communication Department, expressed gratitude towards SPIC MACAY and hoped for continued collaboration in organizing such enriching programs.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Neha Tiwari, expressing appreciation for SPIC MACAY and expressing a desire for ongoing collaborations. Local coordinator Mr. Ranjit Singh, program announcer Taseer Shahid, and contributors Syed Sajid Parvez and Syed Shahzeb Parvez played pivotal roles in ensuring the program's success.
The event concluded on a high note, leaving the audience with a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Odissi dance and a renewed enthusiasm for the arts.
