Avirup's Canadian debut blends tribute, tradition and touching reunion
Odissi dancer Avirup's recent journey to Canada was a memorable one, marking his third international stage performance at a major cultural event and his first-ever visit to the country.
He opened the festivities with a tribute to legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray, performing the timeless song
'Aha Ki Anondo Akashe Batase.'
The performance was witnessed by actors Swastika Mukherjee, Paoli, and Parambrata Chatterjee, adding to the evening's charm.
The closing ceremony was equally moving, where Avirup presented a soulful
Durga Stuti
and paid homage to Rituparna Sengupta through her film songs, sung by Riddhi Bandopadhyay.
The narration by Reshmi Mitra added an evocative depth, making the segment one of the most appreciated of the evening. Avirup's felicitation at the event was a proud moment, recognizing his contributions to the classical arts and cross-cultural dialogue.
"However, beyond the stage, it was a deeply personal experience that left a lasting impression on me — reuniting with my former student, Rishita. Having started learning Odissi from me at just six years old, Rishita is now doing well in Canada. Her heartfelt gesture of taking me to Niagara Falls despite her busy schedule is something I will remember," said Avirup.
From celebrating icons of Bengali culture to reconnecting with students and soaking in Canadian beauty, Avirup's trip was a rich blend of performance, nostalgia, and personal joy.
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