A meeting of India's ancient spiritual heritage and Vienna's cultural history, where Odissi became an expression of remembrance, renewal and shared humanity.
On 1 July 2026, Dr Sam Goraya and Austrian Odissi artist Vera-Viktoria Szirmay, joined by students of the Dance Department of the Music and Arts University of the City of Vienna (MUK), presented SAMVERA at the historic Otto Wagner Areal. The performance brought the sacred temple traditions of Odisha, India, into one of Vienna's most historically significant architectural settings, at a time when the former hospital complex is being transformed into a new centre for arts, education, culture and remembrance.
A Place of Memory. A New Cultural Beginning.
The Otto Wagner Areal carries a profound and painful history. During the Nazi era, the complex was associated with the persecution and murder of vulnerable patients, including hundreds of children and young people at the notorious Am Spiegelgrund institution.
Today, the site is entering a new chapter, with its historic pavilions being revitalised for cultural and educational purposes while preserving the memory of those who suffered there. Within this setting, SAMVERA brought an ancient Indian artistic tradition into a space where remembrance and renewal meet.
A Return to Odissi After Many Years
Behind the performance was an equally moving personal journey. Their collaboration became a celebration of artistic continuity, perseverance and the enduring bonds created through classical Indian traditions.
An Offering of Devotion
The performance unfolded on an exceptionally hot summer afternoon, under physically demanding conditions. Before taking the stage, Sam offered prayers to Lord Jagannath and Maa Durga, seeking their blessings for the occasion. At approximately 5pm, as the invocation to Lord Jagannath began, a sudden change in the weather brought wind through the open windows, gathering clouds and eventually rain.
For those present, the unexpected timing became a memorable part of the experience. Sam's presentation of Naba Durga, honouring the nine manifestations of the Divine Mother, carried particular significance within the historic surroundings - invoking strength, protection and the triumph of divine energy over darkness.
India's Living Heritage, Beyond Borders
SAMVERA was more than an international cultural presentation.
It brought together an Indian classical tradition, an Austrian artist's return to her artistic practice, a new generation of university students and a historic European site undergoing cultural transformation. Rooted in centuries of devotion, symbolism and storytelling, Odissi became a shared language through which different histories, generations and cultures could meet.
From the sacred traditions of Odisha to the cultural heart of Vienna, SAMVERA reflected the continuing relevance of India's living artistic heritage on the world stage.
Two artists. Two journeys. One shared devotion.
SAMVERA - An Offering in Odissi.
Event Details:
SAMVERA is where tradition meets devotion, a space where movement, music, storytelling and presence come together in a deeply human way.
Rooted in classical Indian dance and artistic expression, SAMVERA creates experiences that are both timeless and contemporary. Each performance is more than choreography; it is emotion, culture, discipline and soul brought to life.
Through dance, workshops, collaborations and artistic projects, SAMVERA invites audiences into a world of beauty, connection and meaning, one moment at a time.
Guests will experience:
• A live Odissi dance performance
• Lecture demonstration and cultural insights
• Traditional storytelling through movement and music
• Artistic collaboration and contemporary interpretation
• A unique opportunity to experience Indian classical arts up close
Whether you are deeply connected to the arts or discovering Odissi for the first time, SAMVERA offers an unforgettable cultural and artistic experience.
We look forward to welcoming you.
Vera & Sam
