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 New book explores Odissi dance's aesthetic, therapeutic, and metaphysical depths - Rashmita Adhikari e-mail: punarjjaniculturalcentre@gmail.com Photos courtesy: IGNCA May 14, 2025 New Delhi witnessed a cultural gathering on May 6, 2025, at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), where the Kala Nidhi Division hosted the launch of the book 'Odissi Dance: Aesthetics, Therapeutics, and Metaphysics' by renowned dancer-scholar Dr. Reela Hota. The event combined academic rigor, artistic elegance offering attendees an immersive journey into the profound dimensions of Odissi dance.  Book launch The event brought together luminaries from the cultural, academic, and artistic worlds. V. Srinivas, IAS and Secretary, DARPG, served as the chief guest. Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary of IGNCA, guided the program with insight and grace. The panel featured Guru Madhavi Mudgal, Dr. Bhagat Oinam (JNU), and Dr. Ramesh C. Gaur (Head of Kala Nidhi at IGNCA). Dr. Reela Hota herself, both the author and performer, enriched the discussion. Reela Hota's keynote presentation highlighted the healing, spiritual, and metaphysical facets of Odissi dance. Drawing from the book, she described Odissi as more than just a classical dance form - it is a therapeutic art and a pathway to inner transformation. By linking the ancient traditions of yoga, tantra, and classical aesthetics with modern perspectives, the book establishes Odissi as an integrative practice that heals the body and elevates consciousness. V. Srinivas, in his address, commended the Ministry of Culture and IGNCA for supporting Dr. Hota's groundbreaking research. "The author brings out the true purpose of arts and culture in enriching human life," he remarked. The panel discussion explored the book's interdisciplinary approach. Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi lauded it as a "monumental work" that redefines Indian classical dance by intertwining spiritual and healing sciences. He also appreciated the entire editorial team for doing amazing work on the book. Guru Madhavi Mudgal, being a dancer herself, understood and agreed to the context of Aaharya and Pratyahara and praised Dr. Hota's dual expertise in Odissi and yoga, emphasizing the relevance of her work for contemporary practitioners.  Prabhat Kumar, Dr. Reela Hota, Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi Dr. Bhagat Oinam appreciated the book's philosophical depth and accessibility and said that the book not only guides dancers but every person in different aspects of their life, while publisher Prabhat Kumar highlighted its contribution to showcasing the grandeur of Indian dance traditions. The content of the book explores the integration of ancient wisdom and scientific research through practices like Chauka postures, chakra-activating mudras, and Odissi music's transformative ragas. It aligns with Patanjali's yoga principles of pratyahara, dharana, and dhyana, offering a meditative journey to deeper consciousness using transcendental symbols like Krishna in Ashtapadi. Dr. Hota's expertise in ancient texts like the Natya Shastra, combined with modern science, makes this a profound resource for artistes, philosophers, and spiritual seekers.  The event underscored the relevance of integrating arts into modern education and wellness practices. At a time when global education systems are embracing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics), Dr. Hota's work stands as a testament to India's unique ability to merge tradition, science, and spirituality for holistic growth. She summarized the essence of her work: "Dance was born out of Tantra, the ancient spiritual science that explores the limitless potential of the mind. Odissi is not just aesthetically profound but also deeply therapeutic and transformative." Dr. Reela Hota, an Odissi dancer, yoga practitioner, and cultural scholar, has dedicated her career to exploring the spiritual and therapeutic dimensions of Indian classical arts. Her book, published by Prabhat Prakashan, reflects decades of immersive practice and scholarly research.  Rashmita Adhikari is a freelance writer with a lifelong passion for storytelling. Having completed her Masters in Sociology, she is deeply interested in arts and culture, continuously exploring these subjects to enrich her writing. Rashmita is currently working as content editor at Punarjjani Bharat. |
