Class Timings and Punctuality

– Students must arrive at least 5 minutes before the scheduled class start time to allow for warm-up and preparation.
– Classes will begin and end strictly as per the published schedule; late arrivals may not be allowed into the class after it commences.
– Inform the instructor in advance in case of any unavoidable delays or technical issues for online batches.

Attendance and Leave

– Regular attendance is mandatory to ensure progress and maintain the discipline required by Odissi dance.
– Minimum 75% attendance is required for continued enrollment; exceptions are made only for genuine reasons such as illness, family emergencies, or academic commitments.
– Planned absences must be communicated to the teacher at least 48 hours in advance. Missed classes may be made up by attending equivalent sessions, subject to instructor approval and batch availability.
– Attendance logs will be maintained and reviewed periodically.

Dress Code and Discipline

– Students must wear comfortable, Indian attire suitable for dance, such as a cotton kurta or kameez with leggings or salwar and dupatta/angavastram.
– Long hair should be tied back neatly; use hairpins or bands to keep hair away from the face.
– Simple, appropriate jewellery is permitted; avoid wearing anything that may distract during dance movements.

Confidentiality and Privacy

– All learning materials, class content, choreography, and techniques shared by the teachers are the intellectual property of Kala Sthal and are intended strictly for personal practice and growth.
– Sharing, duplicating, or forwarding class links, educational videos, choreographies, and resource materials with non-enrolled individuals or posting them on social media is strictly prohibited.
– Maintain confidentiality of fellow students’ progress, personal information, and any discussions or feedback received during class sessions.

No Distribution or Sharing of Music

– Music, audio files, or practice tracks provided to students for learning purposes are for individual use only.
– It is strictly forbidden to share, upload, distribute, or reproduce these files outside the academy, whether in digital or physical form.
– Any violation will result in disciplinary action, which may include suspension or termination of enrollment.

Filming, Recording, and Photography Policy

– Filming, photographing, or audio recording of classes, the teacher, or fellow students is strictly prohibited unless written permission has been granted by the academy.
– Refrain from bringing recording devices, cameras, or using mobile phones for photography or video during class time.
– Respect the privacy and creative environment of all participants.

Behaviour and Respect

– Students are expected to be courteous, cooperative, and respectful to the teacher and fellow students at all times.
– Disruptive behaviour, use of inappropriate language, or actions that disturb the class environment will not be tolerated.
– Maintain cleanliness and order in all practice spaces.

Practice and Progress

– Regular home practice is encouraged and expected to master choreography and techniques. Students should practice a minimum of two sessions per week outside class.
– Bring a notebook for class notes and feedback. Maintain a practice log, if advised by teacher(s).
– Approach the teacher for guidance early if struggling with any aspect of learning.

General Instructions

– Parents or guardians (for minors) are not permitted to sit in during classes, except in rare circumstances with prior permission, to maintain focus and respect privacy.
– Class schedules, timings, and teachers are subject to change at the academy’s discretion. Updates will be communicated promptly.

This handbook is meant to ensure that every student at Kala Sthal receives the highest quality Odissi training within an atmosphere of respect, confidentiality, and artistic integrity. Adherence to these guidelines is compulsory for all students.

For clarifications regarding any point in this document, please contact the administration in writing.