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Wall of Love
Read what our community is saying about Guru Shradha.
Reviews
Though the school is only one of hundreds across the world dedicated to preserving and transmitting Odissi, Sujata and Ratikant are particularly impressed by the work of its founder and director, Niharika Mohanty, who also studied under Kelucharan Mohapatra. “Her work has been phenomenal,” Ratikant said of Mohanty. “It’s very heartening to see her students when they perform.”... The youngest dancer in this group is 12 years old; the oldest is in her 30s. After two months of practicing together, they move in unison… Having received their feedback, the dancers return to their positions to try again. They don’t look discouraged so much as focused, determined. Elizabeth Schwyzer Palo Alto Online
It was a pleasure to see so many young dancers pursuing the challenging dance style of Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra under the strict supervision of Niharika Mohanty… Manjari Sinha The Statesman
...dance drama ‘Dasanana’ by Guru Shradha from US, held the audience spell-bound. Odisha360.com Bureau
The festival showed one interesting aspect very strongly: while each guru has trained their ward well, and some perform excellently too, it is only one or two in a whole gang of over 600 dancers that showed spark…[Niharika Mohanty’s] dance had a solidity and suppleness, a rare twin quality. Ashish Mohan Khokar Narthaki
The next item was by Niharika Mohanty from USA. Her presentation of a "Pallavi" in Raga Bihag was carefully executed and pleasing to watch. It is obvious that very good preparation has gone into her performance, and specially noteworthy was a fact that all the nuances were apt and in the right places. For somebody living in distant USA, her having kept in close touch with the style, and sincerity in practice, is commendable. Guru Ratikant Mohapatra Narthaki
Then, it was impossible not to fall in love with the boy-girl pairing of Maya Lochana Devalcheruvu, 11, and Akhil Srinivasan Joondeph, 10, in "Guru Shradha," a courtly duet in the Odissi style. Allan Ulrich S.F. Chronicle
Charming, yet very serious in odissi were Maya Lochana Devalcheruvu (age 11) and Akhil Shrinivasan (10). Young as they are, they already showed Odissi’s curved body position and light footwork. With good stage presence, they knew what they were aiming for. S.F. Guardian S.F. Guardian
Megh Pallavi in Odissi was clearly the highlight, choreographed by guru Ratikant Mohapatra and superlatively rendered by Akhil Joondeph and Maya Lochana Devalcheruvu. Priya Das Narthaki
Likewise students of US based dancer Niharika Mohanty marked their distinct presence. Talim and Taiyari were distinctly visible in their body language...Divya, Rasika Kumar are a few names one must remember. Odisha360.com Bureau
The performances of Divya Saha (USA), Ulrika Larsen (Sweden), Douglas Ridings (USA), Shantona Bag (Australia) and Yuval Cohen (Israel) as well artistes from Malaysia-based Sutra dance company were impressive. Namita Panda The Telegraph
The arrangements were absolutely delightful and the costumes of the dancers upon the stage were stunning to say the least. The young dancers danced to the unmeasured invocatory verses, and then the traditional Pallavi, Batu and the Dasavatar of poet Jayadeva, every student exhibiting her keenness and excitement at the opportunity provided to them by the opening of such an institute. The professional presentations of Yugmadwanda Pallavi and an Oriya abhinaya number were performed by Niharika Mohanty and Sujata Mohapatra. They each performed with a mastery that melted the hearts of the onlookers. While the Jugalbandi in the pallavi danced by Niharika was captivating, the Kede Chhanda Abhinaya of Sujata glowed with a brilliant promise that the future of Odissi is intact, and Guruji's mission has the continuum. His research work will go on and on and the stage is set for those in his trail to carry on with zest and intensity, the lifeworks of this great master. Vishal Ramani Narthaki
Testimonials
It has been a true honor for Mosaic America to collaborate with Niharika Mohanty and Guru Shradha over the years. As a Mosaic Fellow, Niharika exemplifies the power of art to transcend boundaries, working across cultures and disciplines to craft meaningful and impactful artistic experiences. Her collaboration with Cambodian master artist Charya Burt on Beautiful Dark, addressing the shared challenges of colorism in South and Southeast Asian cultures, stands out as a testament to her vision and artistry. Through her leadership at Guru Shradha, Niharika brings together diverse artists and audiences, fostering connections that celebrate both individuality and shared humanity. Usha Srinivasan President of Mosaic America
At the 2019 Festival, the Guru Shradha company led by founder, artistic director and soloist, Niharika Mohanty charmed the audience with a flawless display of classical Odissi dance. Andrew Wood Executive Director of San Francisco International Arts Festival
I have watched Guru Shradha 's productions for a number of years and have even done lighting for some of their productions. I am in awe of Guru Niharika Mohanty on many levels - her own dancing, the adherence to her Guru Kelu Babu's legacy, her reverence for her guru and the quality of her students' dancing. Students of Guru Shradha exhibit technical prowess in nritta and abhinaya, grace, and angashuddha in their dancing. Ganesh Vasudeva Bharatanatyam Dancer and Choreographer
I was an avidly practicing, teaching and choreographing Bharatanatyam dancer for over 20 years when I started my journey with Guru Shradha. I can unequivocally say that Acharya Niharika Mohanty has, over the past ten plus years, exposed me to creative ways of understanding and shaping my dancing body, its lines, curves, center, holds and so much more that it has improved my dancing leaps and bounds. I have taken so many of the techniques, vocabularies that she has taught me in Odissi to my Bharatanatyam classrooms and they are totally translatable across styles. I have also had many people who notice it and comment on an unique combination of strength and fluidity that I have acquired under her guidance. Acharya Mohanty doesn’t compromise at all. She painstakingly works with each and every one of her students to get the best out of them. In this fast-paced world where we are all so preoccupied in learning pieces and learning has become a product- based approach the learning which we get at Guru Shraddha focusses so much on the journey. Every class I attend with her leaves me energized and motivated to work on the detailed, nuanced corrections that she relentlessly offers. I know for dancers like me who are advanced in their dance careers getting this level of attention and feedback on our dancing form from an Acharya is a dream come true. Acharya Niharika is focussed on her goal of making sure she brings alive her guruji- Shri Kelucharan Mohaptra’s dream and this steadfast devotion drives her to keep pushing us hard to achieve excellence. I am grateful for her and wish her lots of health and happiness for her to continue this selfless, noble journey for all learners and seekers like us. Dr. Deepa Mahadevan Student of Guru Shradha Since 2010
Smt. Niharika Mohanty is an internationally renowned dancer, teacher and choreographer and the Founder of Guru Shradha. My association with this institution’s director began when my daughter started learning Odissi at the age of 5 and continued her expressive dance journey until she graduated from high school. Guru Shradha was founded with the blessings of Padmabhushan Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra, Guru Ratikant Mohapatra and Smt. Sujata Mohapatra. Their belief was to not only engage, entertain and teach dance but also to bring our ancient temple art, culture, music and devotion to the stage. Niharika (Rini as we lovingly call her) has been instrumental in upholding the Guru Parampara tradition and teaching students in the Bay area for decades. She is an extremely disciplined teacher, shows up in class rain or shine and takes her teaching very seriously. She makes sure that every student is important and works on making sure that the student reaches his/her full potential. She has dedicated her life to imparting this beautiful dance to a number of students that have gone on to perform in various parts of the world. Her teaching is a true embodiment of grace, strength and beauty and watching the children dance is like, watching a work of art come to life. Vasavi Ramachandran Mother of Guru Shradha Student Since 2007
I came to Guru Shradha in January 2019 after graduating college and starting my young adult life in San Francisco. I had previously trained for 13 years under Smt. Nandita Behera in Los Angeles, CA and was looking to continue my Odissi journey in the Bay Area. I was referred to Guru Shradha and Rini apa by a family friend who told me “she’s the best of the best”. Over the past 6 years, Rini apa has solidified my Odissi fundamentals and proceeded to build a rich repertoire of Odissi abhinaya and nritya on top of that strong foundation. She helped me re-fall in love with the fundamentals of Odissi, the basic tribhangi and chauka, vastly complex stances I had previously dismissed as “simple”. Her pure and traditional methodology has completely transformed my mindset and approach to Odissi. It is no longer a “hobby” I do after school/work to add variety to my day. It is my lifestyle, safe space and lifelong discipline. Needless to say, if you join Guru Shradha, you will receive a lot more than dance training! You’ll inherit this centuries-old tradition and become its latest steward, tasked with enriching/evolving/maintaining and passing it along to future generations of dancers. Trina Sarkar Student of Guru Shradha Since 2019 and Teacher Since 2023
Guru Shradha is a premier Odissi school in North America. Niharika Apa's primary goal is to continue Guruji's legacy in the purest form. Guru Shradha nurtures the little ones, encourages teenagers, adults to work towards the perfect technique. One can experience the dance journey under the guidance of Rini Apa, which is extremely enlightening because of the consistent focus on quality, and persistent emphasis on all the nuances and intricacies involved. Rini Apa always provides genuine feedback which helps individuals to learn and constantly do better in the coming days. Guru Shradha brings eminent Odissi Gurus from India for yearly workshops to boost the individuals skills and capabilities. I am extremely fortunate to be part of Guru Shradha and learning from Rini Apa. I also got the opportunity to teach classes. Kanika Mitra Bhattacharya Student and Teacher of Guru Shradha Since 2022
When I started at Guru Shradha at the age of 7, alongside my sister, I had no idea it would become such a transformative part of my life. At first, the dance, culture, and people were all so foreign to me, but under the guidance and care of Rini Apa, along with many wonderful guest teachers, I’ve grown not only as a dancer but as a person as well. The discipline and skills I’ve learned through dancing Odissi at Guru Shradha have extended far beyond the dance floor—teaching me valuable lessons in perseverance, dedication, and self-expression that I carry with me in everything I do. What truly makes Guru Shradha special, though, are the relationships it fosters. I’ve formed lasting friendships and gained invaluable mentorship from some of the most passionate, kind, and talented individuals. The sense of belonging and the unwavering support from the Guru Shradha family are things I will always treasure. The memories from rehearsals, performances, and celebrations are among the most cherished of my life, and I will forever be grateful for the positive and enriching impact this incredible community has had on me. Yamini Kumar Student of Guru Shradha Since 2010 and Teaching Assistant Since 2018
I have been with Guru Shradha for many years, and I am incredibly proud to share that both of my daughters have been learning Odissi with Apa and the team for several years as well. It’s truly an honor to have had the privilege of learning directly from Guruji himself many years ago. The teaching methods at Guru Shradha have remained authentic and deeply rooted in tradition, and I am so glad that this essence continues to thrive. The dedication and passion for Odissi dance at Guru Shradha is unmatched, and it’s a joy to see my daughters grow in this beautiful art form under such expert guidance. Ragini Vecham Student of Guru Shradha Since 2008 and Mother of Two Guru Shradha Students
I have had the privilege of being a student of Guru Shradha since 2006 and am forever indebted to the tutelage of Rini Apa, Sujata Apa, and Shibu Bhai. The dedication by Rini Apa to preserve the quality and nuance of Guruji’s legacy, especially in the US, is truly unparalleled. From breaking down basics to guiding through more complex items, Guru Shradha does an amazing job at elevating and supporting a dancer, no matter what level of experience they have. I am also so grateful for the community fostered here. Beyond classes and performances, it is genuinely such a fun time catching up with one another and we do consider each other like family. Divya Saha Student of Guru Shradha Since 2006 and Teacher Since 2012
I joined Guru Shradha when I was 5 years old, and it has become my home away from home. Rini Apa is an amazing teacher who focuses on building a strong technique in all of her dancers, encouraging us to become the best versions of ourselves through our foundational training before we even learn items. I also love the Guru Shradha community—we are all like family, regardless of our level or our age. Tiana Salvi Student of Guru Shradha since 2013
Taking Odissi dance classes at Guru Shradha has been an incredibly enriching experience. I get individual attention from my gurus, who are deeply knowledgeable and passionate, ensuring that every student grows in technique and understanding. They help guide each movement with attention to tradition and detail. Be it regular classes or summer workshops, there is a tremendous emphasis on foundational steps and fundamentals of Odissi dance. This helps build the rigor and discipline to achieve near perfection of this dance form. Our Gurus take time to help us understand the meaning behind the expressions, steps and songs of Odissi dance. Thus, I have not only learned the technical aspects of Odissi but also gained insight into its cultural significance. For me, through Guru Shradha, it has been a beautiful journey of learning Odissi and its rhythmic movements, expressions, and grace. I would highly recommend this class to anyone looking to connect with Odissi dance in an inspiring and supportive environment. Smitanjali Indira Priyadarshini Student of Guru Shradha Since 2022
I have been dancing with Guru Shradha since I was 5 years old. My childhood includes stories about princesses running in the woods to learn my hastas-hand gestures. Odissi is much more than just a dance form - its a method of storytelling. I’ve learned how to use my eyes to explain emotion, how to use my torso to show the grace of the character. Odissi had woven its way into other parts of my life as well. My core and leg strength is because of dance - I owe my volleyball skills to my foundation in Odissi. No matter how busy life gets, I always find myself back in the studio. There is no joy equivalent to the energy I am filled with when I perform. When the music starts, I become the character I am portraying. Rini Apa has truly gone above and beyond for this community. She supports her students like we are her family. She pushes us to be our best, and she helps us get there. She came to my volleyball senior night and then helped me prepare for an upcoming performance in an extra private lesson the next week. She represents what the Guru Shradha community is all about: maintaining an art form, creating community, and supporting each other. Araika Ramchandran Student of Guru Shradha Since 2012
My daughter has been taking Odissi dance classes for over two years with Guru Shradha. My intention with starting her on Odissi lessons was twofold- to have an appreciation for the beautiful Indian dance form, and to through it, develop a connection to Indian culture. I believe Guru Sradha has helped her achieve both objectives. She enjoys her dance classes and I see her getting better over time. I am grateful to Guru Shradha for instilling the beauty and discipline of Odissi in her and all its students. Shalini Mukherjee Mother of Guru Shradha Student Since 2022
