Vishnu Tattva Das

🪔 About

Vishnu Tattva Das is a prominent Indian classical Odissi dancer, choreographer, and guru, recognized for his significant contributions to the art form in both India and the United States. Born and raised in Mumbai, India, he developed a profound interest in Vaishnava philosophy and teachings from an early age, which he seamlessly integrates into his dance practice and philosophy. His formal training in Odissi commenced in 1989 under the guidance of Smt. Jhelum Paranjape, director of the Smitalay Dance Company in Mumbai. Following this, he pursued intensive studies for two years, beginning in 1990, at the Odissi Research Center in Bhubaneshwar, Orissa. There, he received tutelage from the legendary Padmavibhusan Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra, who is widely credited with the 20th-century revival of Odissi. Having completed his extensive training, Vishnu Tattva Das dedicated himself to the perfection and promotion of Odissi. He has earned acclaim for his performances across various international stages, including India, Italy, Canada, Australia, Japan, and the U.S., where he has presented hundreds of solo performances, lecture-demonstrations, and master classes. He is particularly noted for his mastery of sacred Odissi, especially in Ashtapadi pieces, and for his holistic understanding and unique interpretation of the dance form, which resonates deeply with audiences. Currently based in the San Francisco Bay Area, U.S.A., Vishnu Tattva Das is the founder-director of Odissi Vilas: Sacred Dance of India, an institution previously known as Sri~Krishnasraya. Through Odissi Vilas, his mission is to preserve the cultural heritage, cultivate respect for, and educate the public on Odissi performing, visual, and literary arts, offering instructional programs and high-caliber dance events. He is also a founding member of Kala Sri Sangha, a collective of professional Odissi dancers in the San Francisco Bay Area dedicated to promoting Odissi dance. For over two decades, he has been actively involved in learning, teaching, choreographing, performing, and producing Odissi dance in both the United States and India. His teaching style is characterized by a calm demeanor, grace, and extensive knowledge, infusing his chosen art form with beauty, refinement, and spirituality.