Srihari Nayak

🪔 About

Srihari Nayak was a prominent Indian classical dancer and guru, celebrated for his mastery of the Mayurbhanj style of Chhau dance. Born in 1934 in Kanakpur, Orissa (now Odisha), he dedicated his life to the art form. Nayak received his training under esteemed gurus such as Kandrababu, Padmacharan Bhanj, and Ananta Charan Sai, and further honed his skills at the Uttarsahi Chhau Akhada in Baripada. In his early career, Srihari Nayak gained popularity across the state for his captivating performances, particularly his renditions of Sabata Toka, Shiva, and Vishnu. He was instrumental in promoting Chhau dance, not only by training numerous students but also by performing internationally in regions like Europe, the erstwhile USSR, the UK, and the USA, thereby bringing global recognition to the Mayurbhanj Chhau style. Nayak's commitment to teaching was significant. He served as the head of the Chhau department at the Utkal Sangeet Mahavidyalaya in Bhubaneswar, Orissa's premiere college of performing arts, from where he eventually retired. He was known as a patient and loving teacher, and his advocacy played a role in facilitating the entry of women into Chhau dance, which was traditionally an exclusive domain for male dancers. For his pioneering contributions to Chhau dance, Srihari Nayak was honored with both state and national recognition. He received the State Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1977. In 1988, he was conferred the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award by India's National Academy of Music, Dance, and Drama for his outstanding accomplishments in Chhau dance. Guru Srihari Nayak passed away in 2010 in his hometown of Baripada at the age of 76, leaving behind a rich legacy in the world of Indian classical dance. Among his notable students is the Italian Odissi and Chhau dancer-choreographer Padma Sri Ileana Citaristi. Awards & Honours: State Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1977), Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1988).