Posted on 10 March 2026:
38th Guru Pranam Utsav 2026 : A Celebration of Devotion, Tradition and Artistic Legacy
Noida’s esteemed Vaishali Kala Kendra, founded and nurtured by Dr. (Smt.) Jyoti Shrivastava, continues its noble mission of preserving and promoting India’s classical heritage.
Rooted deeply in the revered Guru-Shishya Parampara, the institute carries forward the distinctive Odissi style of the late Guru Shrinath Raut, ensuring his artistic vision flourishes through generations of disciples.
In reverent memory of Guru Shrinath Raut, the Kendra proudly presents its annual three-day cultural festival, the Guru Pranam Utsav—a heartfelt tribute to the guru’s enduring legacy and a reaffirmation of the timeless bond between teacher and disciple.
This year marks the 38th edition of Guru Pranam Utsav, to be held in New Delhi, where devotion, tradition and artistry converge in a radiant celebration of Odissi’s spiritual depth and cultural resonance.
Inspiring Through Tradition
Every year, Vaishali Kala Kendra invites a distinguished guest artist to its Guru Pranam Utsav, a tradition designed to motivate young dancers, instill the values of the Guru-Shishya Parampara, and inspire them to carry forward this artistic legacy with devotion.
In 2026, the festival is honoured by the presence of Smt. Jyoti Rout, an eminent Guru who has enriched the Odissi world for over three decades, leading institutes in both Bhubaneswar and California, USA. Her unique presentation not only uplifts the disciples but also reflects her lifelong dedication to Odissi and her unwavering commitment to preserving its traditions.
As Jyoti Srivastava, Director of Vaishali Kala Kendra, beautifully expresses:
“Through Guru Pranam Utsav, Vaishali Kala Kendra not only honours the memory of Guru Shrinath Raut but also reinforces its commitment to nurturing Odissi as a living and evolving art form.”
This heartfelt tradition ensures that the festival remains a radiant bridge between reverence for the past and inspiration for the future.
An Opening Evening of Classical Dance
The Guru Pranam Utsav begins on 9 April 2026 at Stein Auditorium, India Habitat Centre, 7 PM onwards, with a vibrant celebration of India’s classical dance traditions. Senior disciples of Dr. (Smt.) Jyoti Shrivastava, along with her own presentation, will grace the stage in reverent homage to the Guru-Shishya Parampara.
The evening further unfolds with performances by renowned exponents—Dr. Ragini Chandrashekar in Bharatanatyam and Smt. Minu Thakur in Kuchipudi. Together, these presentations create a rich confluence of Odissi, Bharatanatyam, and Kuchipudi, offering audiences a luminous glimpse into the depth, intricacy, and spiritual resonance of India’s classical heritage.
An Evening of Melody and Rhythm
On the second day of the Guru Pranam Utsav, on 10 April 2026 at 7 PM, the stage at Amaltas Auditorium, India Habitat Centre will resonate with the soulful spirit of Indian classical music. The evening begins with a serene flute recital by Sh. Siddharth Dalbehera, followed by the evocative vocal performance of Sh. Siddharth Kishore, and culminates in the dynamic tabla recital of Sh. Shubhendu Das.
A Finale of Tradition & Renewal
The concluding day of the Guru Pranam Utsav on 11 April 2026, unfolds at Triveni Kala Sangam, Mandi House, from 6:30 PM onwards, with a heartfelt showcase by the junior disciples and budding dancers of Vaishali Kala Kendra. Their performances revive the Bal Gopal Ashtak, an original choreography by Padma Shri Guru Durga Charan Ranbir, alongside selected traditional works of the late Guru Shrinath Raut.
Guided by the timeless Guru Parampara, these presentations embody both continuity and promise—honouring the masters of Odissi while heralding the emergence of its future custodians.
