Hailing from Odisha, a student of sixth grade, Thea has been learning the art of Odissi dance since the last one and half years under the guidance of her guru Shally Shrivastava. She enjoys the art because it sends spiritual messages through Mudras and eye movements, inspired by Lord Jagannath.

The Initiation

Thea, who attends Assam Rifles Public School, initially took up Odissi dancing only for pleasure, but with time, her passion in this traditional dance style grew. For the past year and a half, she has been learning Odissi dance through online sessions.

Gurus & Role Models

Thea is learning Odissi dance at Virasat Ensemble-Gurukul of Performing Arts from her teacher, Shally Shrivastava. She finds great enjoyment in the beautiful and interesting way in which her guru instructs her. She cites Shally Shrivastava, her guru, as her primary influence. She is moved by the elegance and beauty of her guru's dancing. She always follows her and tries to dance like her.

The Talent

Thea claims that she enjoys learning Odissi dance because the eye movements and mudras convey spiritual messages. Based on Lord Jagannath’s depictions in ancient sculpture, Odissi features a number of avatars, including Vakratund, Namami, Dashaavatar, and others.

Achievements

At the Sitla Bari Mandir Complex, Thea made her stage first appearance, performing Vande Matram, where she placed fourth.

A Bit More

Her favorite song is "Vakratunda Mahakaya," which she enjoys performing. She enjoys the hand and eye motions in the song, which is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. She advises anybody interested in learning Odissi to do so since it develops discipline and enhances flexibility, strength, and posture. She also says that she feels like a goddess when she wears the costume and that she has a spiritual connection to God when she dances.