I discovered my passion for dance at the age of 3 and began exploring this beautiful art form called Odissi under the guidance of Guru Sharmila Biswas, in India, where I grew up. Prior to moving to Canada, I have had 15 years of academic style training in Odissi, at the end of which I knew I wanted to be a performer. After moving to Canada, I continued performing and training under Guru Enakshi Sinha, the founder and artistic director of Mrudanga Academy of Performing Arts. Under Guru Enakshi, I have been an active performer of Mrudanga’s ensemble as well as represented Mrudanga at several dance festivals in Alberta, Ontario and Quebec as a solo artist. Horizon Series Emerging Artist Festival by Sampradaya Dance Creations, Indian Summer and Festival Next Gen MultiArts hosted by Kabir Center in Quebec, Feats Festival by Alberta Dance Alliance are some of the notable ones. It is important to me that I demonstrate strong technique complimented with grace and elegance which brings out the beauty of Odissi. One of my goals as an Odissi practitioner is to bring this breathtakingly graceful dance form closer to people, who aren’t Indian Classical dancers, or aren’t even necessarily dancers. I aspire to make my performances relatable, and inclusive to people with diverse backgrounds and interests, and to create a welcoming and inviting space for them where they feel connected to the dance. I want to ensure more residents of Ontario, watch and experience Odissi.