Bipanchi Das, daughter of legendary Guru Debaprasad Das, is doing her part to preserve her father’s pioneering work in Odissi. Being the last surviving ‘Mahari’ artiste, her only objective is to perform in front of Lord Jagannath. She wishes Guru Debaprasad Das to receive a Padma Bibhusan posthumously for his contributions. In a freewheeling chat with Chaitali Shome of Orissa Post, she opened up about her incredible journey.
Your name is unique. What does it mean?
Sangeet Sudhakar Bala Krushna Das named me Bipanchi. It signifies the Veena which is held by Goddess Saraswati. My father used to call him ‘Bapa’. Hence, I always respected him as my grandfather. He gave me a name which is rare. I feel truly blessed.
Describe your experience with Guru Debaprasad Das.
I am blessed to be born as the daughter of Guru Debaprasad Das who is one of the founders of Odissi. Even though I was his daughter, he used to treat me like any other student. This is a testament to his testament. I still remember that he asked me lengthier and more difficult question to make sure that he wasn’t partial towards his daughter. He died when I was only 13 years old. The incident shook me beyond imagination. He always wanted me to carry forward his legacy. It inspired me to work hard.
Do you feel Das hasn’t received apt recognition for his work?
Yes of course. It’s ridiculous to know that people who have done fewer research work compared to my father are receiving Padma Shri and Padma Bibhusan while my father, who was a pioneer of Odissi, hasn’t received any of these recognitions. Let me tell you that he was the first person to introduce Mahari costume in Odissi which is meant to be performed before Lord Jagannath. You won’t see any dancer performing that any more. He was the first Guru to take Odissi dance abroad with his student Indrani Rehman. That’s why I am working against all odds to make sure my father receives this coveted award.
Tell us about your journey as a dancer.
I started learning Odissi from the age of five. I have experienced many ups and downs during 38 years of professional classical dance. My father’s strict teaching has made me a great student as I have mastered ‘Abhinaya’. I personally believe that Guru Debaprasad Das gharana is all about Abhinaya or expression.
Throw light on your initiatives to preserve ‘Mahari’ tradition.
I initiated Guru Debaprasad Das Foundation in 2014. I have also opened a dance school named Debangana which has thirty students. My cousin Santosh Pradhan and some friends have helped me in these endeavours. I also organise Paripurnnna and The Naika Dance Festival July 16 and 17 every year. Besides, I organise Guruji’s death anniversary Debaprasad Utsav October 28 every year. Another programme ‘Annusarna’ is a combination of seminars and workshops to educate aspirants.
How do you select your students?
I always look for ‘Anga Sudhi’, acceptance and permission of parents. I always look for complete devotion of a student. Besides, good footwork and the ability to keep one’s body flexible are some of the attributes on which I judge potential students.
