Current Gurus
Guru Rashmi Ranjan Barik
(2024 – 25)
Rashmi is a special combination of dancers who is known for his perfectionism, sophisticated footwork, captivating expressions, and ability to hypnotize an audience. He is well-known throughout the world for his remarkable fusion of masculine vigor with delicate, elegant motions that uphold traditional Indian aesthetic principles.
From Utkal University of Culture in Odisha, India, he earned an M. Phil. after completing a master’s degree in Odissi dance. He has been teaching for more than 7 years, and he has been a professional dancer for the past 22 years.
One of the most talented dancers of his generation, Rashmi received his training and development at the Odisha Dance Academy in Bhubaneswar, India, under the tutelage of guru Padmashree Mrs. Aruna Mohanty. He spent more than ten years honing his craft at the Rudrakshya Foundation in Bhubaneswar, India, under the tutelage of renowned Guru Mr. Bichitananada Swain. He was also employed by the Guru Kelu Charan Mohapatra Odissi Research Center in Bhubaneswar, India, as a senior faculty member. He often performs throughout India and has given both solo and group performances around several nations, including the USA.
He is the in-resident-guru of Odissi Academy, Texas for 2024-25.
Guru Ms. Santasree Sasmal
(2024 – 25)
For Santasree Sasmal, dancing has always brought her the greatest thrill, much like a bird’s first flight. She has demonstrated her undying enthusiasm for dancing since she was little. When she appeared on stage, she was five years old. She diligently trained herself in addition to her academic pursuits. She then began her Odissi dancing experience under the guidance of Guru Shri Bichitrnanda Swain. She quickly became proficient in her craft and continued to hone it. Like other children, she received direction from her Guru, Mrs. Rojalin Mahapatra, to help her achieve her full potential in life. In the sphere of Odissi dancing, she has distinguished herself with her talents and aptitude. In addition to her ability and dedication to the performing arts, she has excelled academically.
She graduated with a post-graduation in Odissi dance from Rabindra Bharati University, a highly esteemed institution. Bypassing the UGC NET in Performing Arts, she enhanced her academic resume and became eligible to teach at the university level. Her skill and diligence have brought her several accolades and certifications, including recognition as an A-grade West Bengal EZCC Artist and a B-grade Orissa Bhubaneswar Doordarshan Artist, among others. Because of her talent, she has been able to instruct many college students under the esteemed Spicmacay banner. She has demonstrated her ability to perform Odissi dancing and created a lasting presence at the G20 summit and Konark Festival 2023, two prestigious national festivals hosted by our esteemed Prime Minister, Mr. Narenda Modi. To sum up, she is a good-hearted individual who has a great desire to share the information she has acquired throughout her education, training, and experience in the art of Odissi dancing.
She graduated from Rabindra Bharati University with a master’s degree in Odissi dance and from Sister Nivedita University in Kolkata, India, with a doctorate in Indian classical dance. She works in the Ayudh – Centre of Culture and Creativity in Newtown, Kolkata, as an Odissi dancer.