Odissi dance, a symbol of cultural richness, traces its roots back to the mystical land of Odisha. It has survived through generations, showcasing graceful movements and intricate footwork that narrate stories of devotion and spirituality. In a recent interview with Asian Voice, we spoke with Sushmita Pati, the Artistic Director and CEO of Kala The Arts, about Odissi's portrayal of femininity, challenges faced by men in classical dance, and the significance of supporting women in the field.
How did your upbringing shape your perspective on success and unconventional career paths, particularly within the context of South Asian culture?
I consider myself fortunate to have grown up in an environment fostered by my open-minded parents. Their attitude towards success was refreshingly different; there was never pressure to pursue traditional professions like medicine or engineering. Instead, they instilled in me the importance of excelling in whatever field I chose. As artists themselves, they embodied openness and acceptance, traits that permeated our family dynamic. They were supportive of our aspirations, embracing our individual paths without reservation.
However, I'm aware that within South Asian culture, there exists a stigma around unconventional careers and the perception of success solely tied to financial gain. This became evident to me during an encounter with the Odissa Doctor's Association, where my profession as a dancer was met with skepticism, highlighting the prevailing mindset that equates success with high-paying professions.
Despite these challenges, I believe attitudes are evolving as more individuals challenge societal norms and redefine success. While the financial rewards may not match those of traditional careers, the invaluable contributions made by individuals pursuing their passions are increasingly recognised and valued within our communities.
Are there any specific themes or narratives in Odissi dance that you feel resonate particularly well, with a woman's experience or perspective? If so, could you provide any examples?
Odissi, a classical temple dance form, has historically been dominated by female south Asian performers. However, it has also attracted European dancers and enthusiasts who have embraced it as a profession. The essence of Odissi often celebrates femininity, exemplified by its sculptural movements like Tribhanga, which celebrate women in their entirety. The dance repertoire includes ancient classics narratives such as tales of Krishna, Draupadi, Sita, Radha, and Lord Jagannath, reflecting its roots in Orissa's rich cultural heritage. In addition to classical themes, contemporary topics are also explored through Odissi, such as I am working on creating a piece using Odissi dance language on Mental Health, a taboo within the South Asian community and its awareness . Another example is our exploration of environmental themes, highlighting our responsibility to nurture and protect the earth. Through Odissi, we endeavor to convey meaningful narratives that resonate with diverse audiences and address pertinent societal issues.
From a female perspective, how do you observe the historical trend of men being ridiculed or more for participating in classical dance forms? And what shifts have you noticed in recent times that challenge this gender stereotype?
In my experience, I've had the opportunity to dance alongside male performers in Odissa, many of whom have chosen dance as their profession. I've been particularly passionate about promoting male participation in the arts, striving to create inclusive spaces where men feel comfortable expressing themselves through dance. As a result, we've welcomed numerous LGBTQ professional dance artists into our fold, offering support and opportunities.
While it's true that there may be societal pressures and prejudices surrounding male dancers even now, I have not witnessed such incidents firsthand. However, I understand that some families may hold reservations about sending boys to pursue dance. Recently, we encountered a situation where a parent expressed concerns about their son's dance movements being perceived as too feminine during a Bollywood dance class. In response, I emphasised the importance of allowing artists to express themselves creatively and facilitated a constructive conversation to address the parent's apprehensions.
Through open dialogue, engagement with artists, visiting creative places and education, we were able to challenge and dispel misconceptions, ultimately fostering a more inclusive and understanding environment.
Why is it crucial to invest in women in the dance industry? And what steps can organisations or societies take to offer better support and empowerment for women to excel in this field?
It's crucial for both male and female artists to be represented in the industry, as each brings unique perspectives, attributions, and dimensions to their craft. Empowering women in particular not only creates job opportunities but also fosters leadership within the community. By providing women with opportunities for growth and momentum, they can serve as role models for the younger generation, inspiring them to pursue their passions, develop skills, and aspirations and increase opportunities. As a mother and a creative artist myself, I've seen the importance of empowering my daughter to explore her own interests, such as Odissi dance. While it wasn't initially my intention to teach her, my mother's persistence in ensuring she learned the art form highlights the significance of artistic expression and its value in her life. Through any arts, individuals can find a means to express themselves creatively and authentically, regardless of their chosen career paths.