Tridhara

Introduction to Tridhara

Tridhara is a premier institution dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and dissemination of Odissi dance, one of India’s most ancient and revered classical dance forms. Founded and guided by Guru Dr. Gajendra Kumar Panda, Tridhara carries forward the unique legacy of the Debaprasad Gharana of Odissi established by the legendary Guru Debaprasad Das.

For over four decades, Tridhara has been actively engaged in nurturing dancers, producing innovative choreographies, organizing prestigious festivals, and presenting Odissi across India and the world. The institution continues to uphold the rich cultural heritage of Odisha while exploring new artistic expressions within the classical framework.

About Tridhara

Tridhara was established with the vision of preserving and promoting the distinctive style of Guru Debaprasad Das, one of the founding fathers of Odissi dance. This style is renowned for its integration of tribal, folk, and traditional Odissi elements, creating a dynamic and powerful form of expression.

Under the guidance of Guru Dr. Gajendra Kumar Panda, Tridhara has evolved into a vibrant center of learning, choreography, and performance. The institution regularly participates in major national and international festivals, including the Konark Dance Festival, Mukteshwar Festival, Dhauli Kalinga Mahotsav, Chakradhar Samaroha, and Khajuraho Festival.

Our Gurus

The spirit of Tridhara is carried forward by masters of the Debaprasad Gharana.

Our Beloved Guruji

Late Guru Debaprasad Das

One of the four founding fathers of Odissi dance. His synthetic gharana—integrating tribal, folk, and classical Odissi—forms the foundation of Tridhara’s tradition.

Director

Guru Dr. Gajendra Kumar Panda

Distinguished Odissi exponent, choreographer, researcher, and teacher. He preserves and expands the artistic legacy of Guru Debaprasad Das and leads Tridhara.

Profile & achievements →

Assistant Director

Prabhutosh Panda

Dynamic performer of the Guru Debaprasad Odissi tradition. Trained from age four under his father Dr. Gajendra Kumar Panda, he carries the Debaprasad Das style into the future.

Festivals Organized by Tridhara

Annual festivals and workshops at Rabindra Mandap, Bhubaneswar and beyond.

International Summer Odissi Dance Workshop – 2025

21st April – 20th May 2025 — A month-long intensive under the direct supervision of Guru Dr. Gajendra Kumar Panda, with daily morning and evening sessions. Participants from tiny tots to senior artists, from across India and abroad, take part in this summer workshop to explore Odissi and deepen their practice.

Debasmruti – 2025

22nd May 2025 — A festival organised as the conclusion of the International Summer Odissi Dance Workshop. Artists from tiny tots to senior exponents—from India and abroad—who participated in the workshop come together to showcase what they have achieved during the month-long intensive.