About
Biography
Sujata Mohapatra is one of the leading exponents of Odissi today for her grace, discipline, and deeply traditional approach to the art form. She was born in Balasore, Odisha, and began learning Odissi at a young age under Guru Sudhakar Sahu, laying an early foundation in both classical technique and the folk expressions of her home state.
She moved to Bhubaneswar in 1987 to train under Padma Vibhushan Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra, after his artistic journey had taken a defining shape, and she was widely regarded as the architect of modern Odissi. As a performer, she has presented Odissi extensively across India and many countries. She is a senior member of Srijan—the dance institution and troupe founded by Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra—and continues to carry forward his legacy. Alongside performance, she serves as the principal of Srijan (Odissi Nrityabasa) in Bhubneswar, while also mentoring students through workshops and training programs worldwide.
She holds a master's degree in Odia literature and has contributed research at the Odissi Research Centre scholarship that complements her practice and deepens her understanding of the art's cultural roots.