Ranjana Gauhar

Padmashree Ranjana Gauhar is a world-renowned Odissi (Indian classical style) dancer and choreographer who authored the book Odissi, Dance of the Divine. She learnt her art from Guru Mayadhar Raut, who gave classical status to this style originating from Odisha (formerly Orissa).

A recipient of the Padma Shree Award in 2003, and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for the year 2007 by the President of India, Ranjana Gauhar has taught Odissi performing art as Guruji to many female students. She founded and leads the Ranjana’s Odissi Dance Academy within the Utsav Educational and Cultural Society. In 2004, she performed in Cambodia with dancers from RUFA.

Guruji Ranjana Gauhar with students in 2020 (Facebook)