ShishiraChhanda 2025

ShishiraChhanda 2025 – 9th Annual Classical Music & Dance Festival

It is that time of the year, and we are delighted to announce the 9th edition of ShishiraChhanda, our annual festival celebrating classical music and dance. A confluence of tradition, artistry, and devotion, ShishiraChhanda has grown into a much-awaited cultural evening that brings together connoisseurs and lovers of Indian classical arts.

This year, we are proud to present our new production:

Mādhaveti – The Story of Nīlamādhava to Jagannatha

A thematic dance production that explores the sacred journey of Lord Nīlamādhava and his transformation into Lord Jagannatha, this work draws from ancient legend, devotion, and the spiritual essence of Odissi. The presentation traces the powerful narrative of divine destiny and human surrender, offering audiences an immersive artistic experience.

Featured Artistes

We are deeply honoured to feature exceptional artistes who bring depth, vision, and excellence to the stage:

✨ Dr. Padmini Sirish – California-based Bharatanatyam artiste and Founder of Aradhana Arts. A recipient of prestigious national recognitions, she balances a dedicated artistic journey with an accomplished academic career, enriching her performances with sincerity and grace.

✨ Smt. Indu Vijay – Odissi dancer based in Singapore and Founder of Taal School of Odissi. Known for her nuanced abhinaya and precise technique, Indu continues to inspire global audiences through her commitment to classical dance.

Chief Guests for the evening
We are deeply privileged to welcome three luminaries of Indian classical dance as our esteemed guests for this year’s edition of ShishiraChhanda.

Each of them is a devoted practitioner, celebrated exponent, and a profound contributor to their respective traditions.

Dr. Veena Murthy Vijay is a renowned Kuchipudi dancer, choreographer, and artistic mentor whose work has significantly shaped the contemporary Kuchipudi landscape.

Dr. Shobha Shashikumar is an eminent practitioner of Bharatanritya, a scholar, an author and a respected guru, known for her impeccable training and decades of dedicated service to the art.

Guru Shri Murali Mohan Kalvakalva is a distinguished Kathak exponent, teacher, and torchbearer of the form’s grace, rhythm, and pedagogy.

Their presence is a true honour for us, and we are grateful to have their blessings and support as we celebrate ShishiraChhanda 2025.

About Sarita Mishra

Sarita Mishra, the Artistic Director and Founder of Adyasha Foundation, is recognized as one of the foremost artistes of her generation in Odissi. She has been devoted to the art form since the age of four, training under esteemed gurus including Guru Niranjan Rout, Guru Bichitrananda Swain, Guru Yudhisthir Naik, and Padmashree Dr. Aruna Mohanty.

Celebrated for her expressive abhinaya, technical finesse, and commanding stage presence, Sarita is known for seamlessly blending emotional depth with immaculate nritta. Her performances carry a rare balance of tradition and individual artistic identity, bringing freshness while remaining deeply rooted in classical authenticity.

Beyond her illustrious performing career, Sarita is passionately dedicated to nurturing the next generation of dancers, offering rigorous and holistic training in Odissi to students across the world.

About Adyasha Foundation

Established in 2010 in Bengaluru by Sarita Mishra, the Adyasha Foundation is committed to preserving and promoting the classical legacy of Odissi. Over the last 13 years, Adyasha has become a vibrant space for serious learning, guiding students of all ages through structured training in traditional technique, theory, and performance.

Expanding beyond geographical boundaries, Adyasha conducts online classes globally, enabling learners from around the world to access professional training in Odissi. The institution has also been actively involved in cultural outreach, workshops, festivals, and educational initiatives that broaden the audience base for Indian classical arts.

Rooted in discipline, artistic excellence, and cultural integrity, Adyasha Foundation continues its mission of shaping committed artistes and preserving the timeless heritage of Odissi for generations to come.

We welcome you to join us in celebrating art, devotion, and cultural tradition this ShishiraChhanda.

A memorable evening awaits you!