Adria Cardoza’s Manch Pravesh: A Soulful Odissi journey rooted in tradition and devotion

Adria Cardoza’s Manch Pravesh: A Soulful Odissi journey rooted in tradition and devotion

Mangalore Today News Network

By Wilfred Lawrence D’Souza

Mumbai, Jan 21, 2026: Mumbai witnessed a spellbinding celebration of Indian classical dance as young Odissi artiste Adria Cardoza made her formal solo debut with her Manch Pravesh, marking a major milestone in her artistic journey. The recital, held at the Mukkti Cultural Hub Auditorium, Andheri, unfolded as a soulful offering of rhythm, grace, and devotion, leaving the audience enthralled by her technical finesse and emotive depth.

Odissi, one of India’s oldest classical dance forms, originates from the sacred temples of Odisha. Rooted in devotion, it is defined by sculptural poses, expressive abhinaya, fluid torso movements, and intricate footwork. Iconic stances like Tribhangi and Chauka symbolize both grace and strength, while the dance itself conveys mythological narratives of Lord Jagannath, Krishna, and Radha. Traditionally performed by Maharis in temple precincts, Odissi today continues as a timeless blend of storytelling, devotion, and artistry.

A Manch Pravesh marks a dancer’s first formal solo recital after years of rigorous training, symbolizing the transition from student to performer. For Adria, it was not just a performance but a heartfelt homage to her Guru and the Odissi tradition.

A promising disciple of Pt. Guru Rabindrakumar Atibudhi, founder and director of Odissi Kalakshetra & Shreeskhetra Mumbai, Adria began her training in grade four at Nalanda Dance Research Centre and later continued under Guruji at Shreeskhetra. She holds a Visharad in Odissi Dance from Pracheen Kala Kendra, Chandigarh University, reflecting her strong academic foundation.

As a dedicated member of her Guru’s troupe, Adria has performed at prominent cultural platforms across India, including Rashtriya Ekta Diwas 2025 at the Statue of Unity, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and at ISKCON Juhu’s Janmashtami festival alongside Bollywood personality Meenakshi Seshadri. Her performances at Swami Haridas Sangeet Sammelan 2018, Odisha Fest 2019 in Navi Mumbai, the Festival of Performing Arts 2023 in Ahmedabad, and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Event 2023 further established her as a rising talent in Odissi.

The ceremonial evening commenced with a traditional Ganesh Vandana, setting a spiritual tone for the recital. Adria presented a series of emotive and technically sophisticated compositions, seamlessly integrating rhythm (laya), beat (taal), and expression (bhav). The audience responded with resounding applause to her graceful execution and expressive storytelling.

Highlights included Tulasi Pallavi (Raga Kafi, Ektala), emphasizing the sacred Tulasi plant; the evocative Kahin Gaye Murali Phunka, portraying Radha’s longing for Krishna; and Durga Tandav, depicting Goddess Durga’s fierce battle against evil. Her abhinaya Tore Sharan Gali Re Murali showcased Radha’s emotional dialogue with Krishna’s flute, performed and sung by Adria herself. The recital concluded with Dashavatar, illustrating the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu, and Moksha, symbolizing spiritual liberation.

Daughter of Shaila and Greg Cardoza, originally from Belman, Udupi, Adria demonstrated remarkable clarity of movement, rhythmic precision, and expressive maturity—qualities that belied the fact that this was her first formal solo recital.

Speaking on the occasion, Pt. Rabindrakumar Atibudhi praised her dedication and rare ability to both sing and perform, wishing her success in becoming a great artiste. Greg Cardoza highlighted the performance as a reflection of devotion, discipline, and cultural preservation. Prof. Rituraj Tiwari of Kandivali Education Society’s Sangeet Mahavidyalaya lauded her flawless presentation and humility, noting that the recital never felt like a debut.

Adria expressed her emotions, saying, “Although I have performed many times before, this solo recital felt incredibly special—almost surreal. Odissi is not just a dance form for me; it is my soul. The love and encouragement I received today will remain close to my heart forever.”

The evening was attended by eminent dignitaries, artists, and cultural patrons, including Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee Dr. Smt. Shailesh Shrivastav, sitar maestro Pandit Rajendra Burman, and filmmaker Rukshana Tabassum. Renowned voice artist Sanket Jaiswal compered the programme with eloquence and poise.

Beyond dance, Adria is a multi-talented achiever. She holds a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Integrative Nutrition & Dietetics, has appeared in national TV commercials, featured in the award-winning short film Apples & Oranges, and is an accomplished Pickleball athlete with multiple gold medals.

The recital concluded to thunderous applause, with the audience hailing Adria Cardoza as a promising new talent in Indian classical dance. Her Manch Pravesh stood as a testament to devotion, discipline, and the bright future ahead for this rising Odissi artiste.