10 March 2025/

SUMEDHA SENGUPTA: A RISING STAR IN ODISSI DANCE

With the grace of tradition and the spark of innovation, Sumedha Sengupta is a luminous talent in the world of Odissi dance. Born in 1992, she began her journey at the tender age of five under the guidance of the renowned Guru Giridhari Nayak in Kolkata’s ‘Odissi Ashram.’ Over the years, she honed her skills through rigorous training and workshops led by eminent Odissi maestros.

Beyond her mastery of classical Odissi, Sumedha Sengupta exemplifies versatility and artistic brilliance. Having performed on prestigious stages across India and abroad, including representing the nation at the SCOT International Summer Festival in Japan, she showcases the rich heritage of Indian dance on a global platform. Whether choreographing and performing Rabindranath Tagore’s dance dramas, anchoring for esteemed platforms like Doordarshan, or creating groundbreaking productions like ‘Urmila’ in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Sumedha’s creative spirit shines brightly. As the founder of her dance school, ‘Angan,’ she passionately cultivates new talent, embodying the timeless beauty and soulful essence of Odissi in every endeavor.

Now a soloist and team manager for Purulia Chhau, Sumedha’s dedication to folklore and cultural studies enriches her artistry, making her a beacon of tradition in a modern world.

SUMEDHA SENGUPTA: A MULTIFACETED TORCHBEARER OF ODISSI DANCE

Sumedha Sengupta, a vibrant and talented Odissi dancer, is gracefully weaving tradition into the modern cultural tapestry. Currently serving as a Project Associate at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), Regional Centre, Ranchi, under the Ministry of Culture, she plays a pivotal role in preserving and promoting India’s artistic heritage. Alongside this, she nurtures budding talent as the Odissi Dance Faculty at both Jharkhand Kala Mandir, Department of Arts and Culture, Government of Jharkhand, and Jawaharlal Nehru Kala Kendra, Mecon, Ranchi. With her dedication and versatility, Sumedha is a shining example of how one can honor classical roots while inspiring new generations to embrace the timeless beauty of Odissi.

SUMEDHA SENGUPTA: A DANCER BRIDGING TRADITION AND MODERNITY

Sumedha Sengupta is a captivating Odissi dancer whose journey harmonizes academic excellence with artistic brilliance. A graduate in Economics Honours from the University of Calcutta, she is also a Sangeet Bhaskar with distinction from Prachin Kala Kendra, Chandigarh. Beyond her academic pursuits, Sumedha has served as the Cultural Committee Chair for Rotaract District Organisation, showcasing her leadership in the cultural realm.

Her performances, beginning with her Guru’s dance troupe, have graced prestigious stages across India—from Hyderabad to Gujarat—and even abroad, representing India in the SCOT International Summer Festival in Japan.

SUMEDHA SENGUPTA ON HER GURU: A FATHER BEYOND DANCE

“My Guru was more than a teacher—he was like a father, nurturing my Odissi journey since I was five years old. He didn’t just teach me dance; he shaped my soul, instilling discipline, dedication, and an undying love for this art form.

What truly set him apart was his humility and purity of heart. He carried no ego, no airs of superiority, only immense respect for all artists, no matter their stature. His life was a lesson in simplicity and kindness, and he showed me that being a good human being is just as vital as being a great artist. His teachings were not just about Odissi—they became life lessons that guide me every single day.” – Sumedha Sengupta

SUMEDHA SENGUPTA: A LAURELED MAESTRO OF ODISSI DANCE

Sumedha Sengupta’s journey in Odissi dance is adorned with remarkable achievements that speak to her talent and dedication. A proud recipient of the prestigious ‘A’ Grade from Doordarshan Kendra, New Delhi, and the Senior National Scholarship in Odissi Dance from the Ministry of Culture, she has been celebrated for her excellence time and again. From earning a Gold Medal from Pracheen Kala Kendra, Chandigarh, to gracing the stage as a TEDx speaker, her accolades include the Yuva Ratna Award, Nritya Shukla Jyoti Samman, and the Phoolo-Jhano Didi Samman, among others. As an empanelled artist of SPICMACAY, an expert member of Doordarshan’s Classical Dance Audition Committee, and a recipient of an Individual Production Grant, Sumedha continues to inspire with her artistry and commitment to classical dance. Her journey is a shining testament to her passion and perseverance.

SUMEDHA SENGUPTA: A LEGACY IN THE MAKING

Sumedha Sengupta’s illustrious journey through countless prestigious festivals and events showcases her unwavering commitment to Odissi dance. From gracing the stages of the National Festival of Odissi Dance & Music to representing her artistry internationally at TEDx and cultural festivals, her contributions breathe life into the rich heritage of Indian classical dance. Her path is one of brilliance, passion, and an enduring legacy. She now lives in Ranchi.

SUMEDHA SENGUPTA: A VISIONARY IN THE WORLD OF ODISSI