Sasmita Panda

🪔 About

Sasmita Panda was a distinguished Indian classical Odissi dancer, a revered teacher, and a significant figure in the propagation of the Odissi dance form. She received her extensive training and mentorship as a senior disciple of the renowned Guru Smt. Meera Das. Her dedication to the art also saw her practicing at the institution of Guru Smt Muktilata, further enriching her understanding and technique in Odissi. Known for her expressive abhinaya and fluid movements, Sasmita Panda graced numerous stages across India, captivating audiences with her performances. Her repertoire included intricate pieces choreographed by her guru, Meera Das, such as the evocative "Rasa Viraha," which she performed at events like Udayaraga, organized by the Orissa Dance Academy. She also masterfully interpreted the choreographic genius of the legendary Padma Bibhushan Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra, performing pieces like "Pallavi" and "Kishalaya Sayana Tale" (Abhinaya Geeta Gobinda). Her notable performances include appearances at the 25th Barbati Nrutyotsaba, the Raja Mahotsav by Soor Mandir in 2018, and the Gunjan Dance & Music Festival in 2014. Beyond her captivating stage presence, Sasmita Panda was deeply committed to education and the nurturing of new talent in Odissi. She served as a senior teacher at the esteemed Gunjan Dance Academy, where she conducted workshops and guided numerous students. Her dedication to her students was evident in the success of disciples like Pragyan Priyadarshini, who, under Panda's tutelage, received a CCRT Junior Scholarship for the year 2025-2026. She also established and led her own dance institution in Gunupur, further expanding her teaching legacy. Her significant contributions to Indian classical dance were formally recognized with a prestigious President's Award. Sasmita Panda was primarily based in Odisha, India, with her work and life connected to cities such as Cuttack and Gunupur. Her untimely demise in a road accident in July 2026 was a profound loss to the Odissi dance community. Awards & Honours: President's Award.