Smitalay

Smitalay is a leading dance school of Mumbai established in 1989 in the fond memory of the late actress Ms. Smita Patil. 'Alay' means the home of - like in Vidyalay (school) home of knowledge or where knowledge shall always be - similarly 'Smitalay'.

'Smitalay' director Jhelum Paranjape and Smita Patil had been close childhood friends and had began the study of Odissi together. Smita shifted to films while Jhelum concentrated & flourished in Odissi. 

The aim of Smitalay is to teach Odissi and broaden the concept of dance (in general) as a visual communicator & educator. The training imparted is two fold: To produce aesthetically & technically good dancers who become professionals and at the same time bring an awareness of our cultural heritage amongst the youth. Our institute has by now trained many budding dancers some of whom are good solo performers, having performed in India and abroad too. The institution's group Odissi shows are much in demand.