Nrutyadhara Foundation

Prajna Mishra

Smt. Prajna Mishra is the founder of Nrutyadhara Foundation, a premier Odissi dance institute in Bangalore, India. Nrutyadhara Foundation is committed to preserving and popularizing the rich culture of Odissi by maintaining high standards of performance & professionalism. The intent of the institute is to create a consummate performer, an adept dancer, with a thorough understanding of the theoretical, literary and musical basis of the traditional art. Nrutyadhara Foundation has been growing steadily, with performances abroad and throughout India.

Vidushi Guru Smt. Prajna Paramita Mishra, a graded artist of Doordarshan and a Nrutya Visharad in Odissi, has carved her niche in the classical dance world through relentless passion, dedication, and a deep commitment to the preservation of Odissi. Her journey into the intricate world of classical dance began at the age of 11 in Dhenkanal, Odisha, under the tutelage of Guru Shri Subash Chandra Swain. This initial training laid the foundation for what would become a lifetime dedication to this ancient art form. With a strong grounding in both the technical and aesthetic aspects of Odissi, Smt. Prajna Mishra has become a symbol of artistic excellence and cultural preservation.

Her love for Odissi transcends the mere performance aspect; it encompasses a holistic approach that includes teaching, nurturing young talent, and creating platforms for the dissemination of this traditional art form. In 2010, she founded the Nrutyadhara Foundation in Bangalore with a mission to promote and popularize Odissi among the younger generation. The foundation aims to impart rigorous training, not only in the practical aspects of dance but also in the theoretical, literary, and musical underpinnings that form the essence of this rich tradition. Through her foundation, she has successfully cultivated a new generation of dancers who carry forward the legacy of Odissi.

As a teacher, Smt. Prajna Mishra has gained widespread recognition for her commitment to her students. Her unique ability to nurture young dancers while maintaining high standards of discipline and artistry has made her a revered mentor. She has a special gift for abhinaya (expressional dance), which is one of the most critical and difficult aspects of classical Indian dance. Under her guidance, her students have performed at prestigious festivals, both in India and internationally, earning acclaim from critics and experts alike.

In addition to technical mastery, she places a strong emphasis on instilling a deep understanding of the cultural and spiritual significance of Odissi in her students. For Smt. Prajna Mishra, dance is not just a form of entertainment or skill but a means of expressing the divine, a philosophy that she consistently passes on to her disciples.

Smt. Prajna Mishra’s contributions to Odissi are reflected in the numerous prestigious platforms where she and her students have performed. Some of her most notable performances include the IGCIC – ICCR Mauritius, Rath Yatra Utsav 2024, and Nadaneerajanam, Brahmotsavam 2023 at Tirumala. Her mesmerizing performances have graced other significant events like the Koti Deepam Utsav 2022 and Governor House, Bangalore on Gandhi Jayanti 2022. These performances, marked by their technical precision, emotive depth, and spiritual grace, have captivated audiences and won her accolades across the globe. Smt. Prajna Mishra continues to represent the finest in Odissi, always striving to elevate the art form to greater heights.

Her contributions to the field of classical dance have not gone unnoticed. Smt. Prajna Mishra has been the recipient of many prestigious awards. She was honored with the Kala Saraswati Puraskar, Nritya Upasak, Indian Icon, Nrutaan Samman and Best Rhythmite Maestro Award. Additionally, These accolades stand as a testament to her relentless dedication, unparalleled skill, and the profound impact she has had on the world of classical dance.

Smt. Prajna Mishra’s Nrutyadhara Foundation has been a beacon of hope for aspiring dancers. The institute’s ethos is rooted in creating well-rounded performers with a deep understanding of the theoretical and practical dimensions of Odissi. The foundation has steadily grown, with performances across India and even abroad, becoming one of the premier institutions for Odissi in Bangalore.

One of her most significant contributions has been her work with Samashreya Learning Academy, where she integrates dance into inclusive programs for autistic children. This initiative reflects her belief in the universal language of dance and its power to heal, communicate, and uplift.

Smt. Prajna Mishra often shares words of wisdom with her students and young dancers: “Never give up. Good things may take time, but with hard work and perseverance, you will achieve them sooner or later.” She also emphasizes the importance of a strong theoretical foundation alongside practical skills. In her view, the two are inseparable and are essential for anyone aspiring to truly master the art of dance.

Vidushi Guru Smt. Prajna Paramita Mishra stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through devotion to one’s craft. Her work, both as a performer and teacher, continues to inspire and elevate the world of Odissi. Through her foundation, her performances, and her dedication to teaching, she ensures that the legacy of Odissi will continue to thrive for generations to come.