Solan: The internationally renowned classical dancer, Padma Shri Guru Geeta Mahalik enthralled the community of learners at The Lawrence School, Sanawar, under the aegis of SPICMACAY (Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music And Culture Amongst Youth) concert series. The event aimed to enrich the cultural landscape of the school and provide students with an opportunity to experience the beauty of Indian classical dance.
Padma Shri Guru Geeta Mahalik, a distinguished exponent of Odissi dance, mesmerized the audience with her spellbinding performance, characterized by exquisite movements, intricate choreography, and emotive storytelling. Accompanied by Mikhil Kumar behra on flute, Prashat Kumar Mangaraj on Mardala, vocal singer Prashanta Kumar Behra , and her favourite disciple dancer Rajni Kant Mahanthy, Guru Geeta showcased the rich heritage and aesthetic charm of Odissi, a classical dance form originating from Odisha, India.
Guru Geeta Mahalik’s performance encompassed a diverse range of Odissi compositions, including Mangalacharan (an invocation piece), Pallavi (a pure dance sequence highlighting rhythmic intricacies), Abhinaya (expressive storytelling), and Ramayana (a concluding piece symbolizing Sita Haran). Each segment of the performance was marked by grace, poise, and technical brilliance, showcasing Guru Geeta Mahalik’s mastery of the art form.
The Odissi dance performance received an overwhelming response from the audience, comprising students and faculty members. The mesmerizing choreography, coupled with Guru Geeta Mahalik’s flawless execution and emotive portrayal, left a lasting impression on all who attended the event. Students, in particular, were awestruck by the beauty and depth of Odissi dance, as they immersed into the world of experiential learning. The performance served as a catalyst for cultural awareness and sparked curiosity among students to explore and learn more about the diverse traditions of Indian dance and music.
Felicitating Geeta Mahalik, Himmat Singh Dhillon, Headmaster of The Lawrence School, Sanawar, said, “The School is committed to promoting artistic excellence and nurturing a deep appreciation for India’s rich cultural heritage among students.”