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Discover the World of Performing Arts and
Social Change

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Working at the intersection of art, behaviour, and social change

About Me

Ankita Kumari is a multidisciplinary professional whose work bridges social and behaviour change (SBC), public health research, and classical performing arts. Her practice combines evidence-based strategy with embodied learning to design meaningful, people-centred approaches to individual and social transformation.

With over two decades of immersive training in Odissi dance, Ankita is a senior disciple of Guru Dr. Binayak Panda, a recognised Grade Artist of Delhi Doordarshan Kendra, and Faculty and Assistant Festival Director at Debadhara. She is deeply rooted in Guru Debaprasad Das ji's style of Odissi while continually exploring contemporary relevance through performance, pedagogy, and collaboration.

Alongside her artistic practice, Ankita works as an SBC professional and researcher, supporting programmes across public health, adolescent and youth development, early childhood care and development, nutrition, mental health, WASH, and non-communicable diseases. She has collaborated with organisations including UNICEF, UNFPA, WHO, World Bank, Van Leer Foundation, USAID, Jhpiego, as well as state governments and national ministries.

What I Enjoy Doing

  • Social & Behaviour Change (SBC) Strategy

  • Qualitative Research

  • Performing Arts Mentorship

  • Event Curation

  • Art based approaches for well-being

  • Merging the worlds of SBC and Arts together

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Art, Behaviour, and Transformation

A defining thread across Ankita’s work is the use of art as a method for reflection, learning, agency, and behaviour change.

 

Her work often engages adolescents and young women, using movement, discipline, and creative practice to support confidence, emotional regulation, and critical thinking.

 

 

 

 

She is the Founder of Dakshata, a platform that brings together dance and behavioural sciences to design learning experiences rooted in embodiment, evidence, and empathy.

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Classes, Workshops and Events

UPCOMING EVENTS
  • Multiple Dates
    Tue, 24 Mar
    24 Mar 2026, 5:00 pm – 5:20 pm
    Google Meet/Zoom
    Book a free 20 minute slot to explore your interest in Odissi Dance!
  • April 2026 (dates to be announced)
    April 2026 (dates to be announced)
    Location is TBD
    Hands on workshop on Odissi Dance makeup and costume
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My love for Odissi dance has achieved new heights just because of the able guidance of Ankita my mentor. I couldn't imagine myself connecting with this pure classical dance form almost after two decades with so much ease without Debadhara.The method of teaching makes the student so comfortable to learn the dance form that too in online mode. Truely commendable.
Student from online Odissi batch
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