Faculty - Alapa Cultural Trust
Guru Shri Nimakanta Routray: A Life Devoted to Odissi Music
Guru Nimakanta Routray is a towering presence in the world of Odissi classical music, known for his refined vocal artistry and lifelong dedication to the tradition. With over 500 performances across India and abroad, he has captivated audiences with his soulful, deeply moving renditions that reflect both technical mastery and emotional depth.
As a teacher and mentor, Guru Routray has played a vital role in shaping the next generation of Odissi musicians. His guidance has helped students understand not only the swaras, ragas, and taalas of the tradition, but also the finer nuances, emotional textures, and spiritual dimensions of the music.
What sets him apart is his patient and generous spirit. His teaching goes beyond the classroom—it becomes a shared journey, rooted in humility, discipline, and devotion. Many of his students regard him not just as a guru, but as a guiding light in both music and life.
Through his passion, dedication, and quiet perseverance, Guru Routray has become a beloved and respected figure in the Odissi music community, inspiring countless artists to carry forward the rich legacy of Odisha’s classical heritage.
Dr. Dibakar Parida – Senior Mentor, Percussion
Dr. Dibakar Parida is a globally respected Mardal Guru, known for his extraordinary command over Odissi percussion. With a distinguished career marked by numerous performances both in India and internationally, he has enthralled audiences with his powerful yet nuanced playing, bringing the intricate rhythms of the Mardal to life on prestigious stages around the world.
A dedicated mentor and passionate teacher, Dr. Parida has guided many students in mastering the subtle techniques and rhythmic complexities of Odissi percussion. His teaching is deeply rooted in tradition, yet flexible enough to adapt to each learner’s journey—encouraging not just skill, but a heartfelt connection to the art form.
Through his artistic excellence, depth of knowledge, and sincere commitment to education, Dr. Parida has earned a revered place in the Odissi music and dance community. His work continues to inspire a new generation of percussionists, helping preserve and carry forward the rhythmic soul of Odisha’s classical heritage.
Soumya Biswajit – Mentor, Sitar
Soumya Biswajit is a talented and dedicated sitarist, known for his growing contributions to the world of Indian classical music. A recipient of the prestigious Senior Scholarship from the Government of India, he has pursued his musical journey with both passion and discipline, refining his art through rigorous training and performance.
As a B-grade artist of All India Radio, Soumya has shared his music with a wide and appreciative audience, earning recognition for his expressive playing and thoughtful interpretations. His strong academic background from Delhi University adds depth to his musical approach, allowing him to blend intellectual insight with artistic sensitivity.
With a calm and focused presence, Soumya Biswajit is steadily emerging as a promising figure in the field of Indian classical music. At Alapa Cultural Trust, he brings both skill and sincerity to his role as a mentor, inspiring young learners to explore the timeless beauty of the sitar.
Bijayalaxmi Routray – Assistant Mentor, Odissi Vocal
Bijayalaxmi Routray is a gifted Odissi vocalist, known for her expressive voice and growing contributions to the field of Odissi classical music. A recipient of the Junior National Scholarship from New Delhi, she has shown remarkable promise and commitment to her art from an early stage.
As a B-grade artist of All India Radio, Bijayalaxmi has presented her music to diverse audiences with elegance and authenticity. She is also a well-known performer on the Sidharth TV network, where her renditions have reached and touched many listeners across Odisha and beyond.
In recognition of her excellence, she has been honoured with the State Award, a testament to her talent and dedication. Known for her sincerity, discipline, and passion, Bijayalaxmi continues to grow as an artist while also contributing as an Assistant Mentor at Alapa Cultural Trust, where she inspires young learners through her guidance and love for Odissi music.
Guru Sudarshan Maharana (Assistant Mentor, Odissi Vocal)
Guru Sudarshan Maharana is a highly respected mentor and a respected assistant teacher of Odissi vocal music at Alapa Cultural Trust. With over 20 years of teaching experience, he has played a quiet yet vital role in nurturing and guiding many students in their musical journey.
Known for his patience, dedication, and deep understanding of Odissi classical music, Guru Maharana has been instrumental in helping learners grasp the finer details of this traditional art form. His steady and thoughtful teaching style has earned him the love and respect of his students, many of whom have gone on to become promising artists in their own right.
His long-standing contribution to Alapa Cultural Trust has been invaluable. Through his work, he continues to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of Odisha, carrying forward the tradition with humility and devotion.
Soumya Kant Mallick, (Assistant Mentor, Percussion)
Soumya Kant Mallick is a skilled and dedicated Mardal player and teacher, known for his command over Odissi percussion and his sincere commitment to the art form. As a B-grade artist of All India Radio, he has shared the rhythmic beauty of the Mardal with diverse audiences, earning appreciation for his clarity, control, and expressive style.
With a deep passion for teaching, Soumya has guided many students in understanding the intricacies of Mardal playing, helping them connect with the rich rhythmic foundation of Odissi music. His approach combines precision with patience, creating a nurturing space for learners to grow.
Recognised for both his performance excellence and teaching ability, Soumya Kant Mallick continues to contribute meaningfully to the field of Odissi music, inspiring a new generation of percussionists with his quiet dedication.