The Master Of An Unparalleled Art - Guru Ekankita Agrawalla

"25 years ago, I got into completing the mission of fulfilling my Mother’s childhood dream of becoming a classical dancer. Today, I am an International Odissi dancer.

My journey started when Guru Prativa Panda used to teach dance & I, around 4-5 years old, had been an active onlooker. My interest was recognized by her and she asked my parents to enroll me.

During this journey, many obstacles came my way. I was craving for growth, but monetary constraints, obstructed me. Outdoor performances required frequent and extensive travelling, so, due to exhaustion, I would pass out. I was also diagnosed with ASO(hounding of millions of bacteria in the bone fluid). My legs swelled abnormally, I experienced excruciating pain at a stretch of 2 hours for 3 years. The pain could not let me dance and I was shattered.  I had to take Penicillin every day without fail. On the other hand, Odissi requires heavy makeup; hence there have been times when the troupe decided not to remove makeup for 4 to 5 days & we used to sleep with that. Moreover, it was challenging for me to pursue my passion along with studies, mostly in senior years. But, somehow, I completed my P.G in dance. 

Many times, I was not being offered the lead or was just asked to fill in. It led me to question myself. But, I fought back and practiced, keeping my focus alive. In 2014, I also attempted for making a name in “Guinness Book of World Record” for the longest hours of uninterrupted performance.

Currently, I am working as a Business Analyst in Zomato. After office, I practice for an hour daily and participate in various events. A most recent achievement was grabbing the “Nrutya Naipunya Puraskar” in International Dance Olympiad. I had beautiful experiences while performing in Malaysia, California, Sri Lanka and UK, contributing to spreading this art worldwide. After a struggle of 26 years, I was awarded with the prestigious title of “Guru Ekankita Agrawalla” by Griffin College, London.

My parents are my utmost pillars of strength. With their support, I was able to find a balance between academics and passion. Through all these years, the one thing that life taught me is that get up and do your thing, even when the odds are against you." - Guru Ekankita Agrawalla.