Guru Mayadhar Raut was a renowned figure in Odissi dance, celebrated as one of the last great masters of this classical art form. His influence as a dancer, teacher, and scholar has left an indelible mark on the preservation and evolution of Odissi.
Born into a world where dance was an intrinsic part of culture, he began his journey in the arts at a young age. His early training was under Kalicharan Patnaik, where he honed his skills before gaining wider experience in Orissa theatres. Raut later studied at Kalakshetra under the legendary Rukmini Devi Arundale, further enriching his artistic perspective.
Guru Raut's contributions to Odissi dance are numerous and significant:
Throughout his illustrious career, Guru Mayadhar Raut received several prestigious awards, including:
Guru Raut dedicated a significant portion of his life to teaching. He imparted his knowledge at the Kala Vikas Kendra in Cuttack and the Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra in Delhi. His students remember him not only for his expertise but also for his kindness and the depth of his insights.
Guru Mayadhar Raut is remembered as a visionary and a master of abhinaya. His immense contributions to Odissi continue to inspire dancers and scholars alike. He is survived by his daughter, dancer-teacher Madhumita Raut, and his sons Manoj Raut and Manmath Raut.
Despite his significant contributions, Guru Raut often felt marginalized within official and artistic discourses in his home state of Odisha. However, his legacy endures, celebrated by those who appreciate the beauty of Odissi dance.
Q1. Who was Guru Mayadhar Raut?
Answer: Guru Mayadhar Raut was a prominent figure in Odissi dance, recognized for his mastery as a dancer, teacher, and scholar who enriched the art form significantly.
Q2. When did Guru Mayadhar Raut pass away?
Answer: Guru Mayadhar Raut passed away on February 22nd at the age of 94, leaving behind a rich legacy in Indian classical dance.
Q3. What were his major contributions to Odissi dance?
Answer: His contributions include introducing Mudra Viniyoga, incorporating Sanchari Bhava into abhinaya, and securing classical status for Odissi.
Q4. Where did he receive his training?
Answer: He received training in Kalicharan Patnaik’s troupe and furthered his education at Kalakshetra under Rukmini Devi Arundale.
Q5. What awards did he receive?
Answer: Notable awards include Padma Shri, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, and Odissi Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, recognizing his contributions.
Question 1: What is the significance of Mudra Viniyoga in Odissi dance?
A) It is a dance form originating from Gujarat.
B) It emphasizes the expressive use of hand gestures.
C) It is a type of music associated with Odissi.
D) It refers to a specific dance attire.
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Who was Rukmini Devi Arundale?
A) A famous Odissi dancer.
B) A key figure in the revival of Indian classical dance.
C) A renowned music composer.
D) An award-winning filmmaker.
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What award did Guru Mayadhar Raut receive in 2010?
A) Sangeet Natak Akademi Award
B) Sahitya Kala Parishad Award
C) Padma Shri
D) Odissi Sangeet Natak Akademi Award
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: Where did Guru Mayadhar Raut teach?
A) Kalakshetra
B) Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra
C) Cuttack University
D) National School of Drama
Correct Answer: B
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