'Sourav's and my relationship has evolved over time'

Dona Ganguly is a celebrated Odissi dancer with a strong identity of her own.

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From the Konark Festival to the Jagannath Temple inauguration in Digha, it’s been a busy year of performances. On meeting her, what stands out is her humility and warmth. Dona is candid, grounded, and deeply inspiring — the quiet force behind her husband's success and a woman of immense talent, grace, and unwavering dedication to her art.Excerpts from the interview:

You performed at the inauguration of the much-talked-about Jagannath Temple in Digha.

It was an honour to perform there at the temple and I thank Didi (Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Minister of West Bengal) for giving me the opportunity. Every year, I perform with my students at the Iskcon Rathyatra. After our performance, Didi performs the aarti and the Rathyatra begins. Didi has been seeing our performance there; that is why I guess I was asked to perform at the inauguration of the temple.

We have heard you are a very involved mother...

Yes, I was a very hands-on mother. I did everything for Sana — from waking her up and making breakfast to dropping her to school and picking her up. During her Class 11 and 12, I ensured she had lunch before tuition, often waiting nearby until she finished. She was my world. But like every butterfly that must fly, Sana eventually left for London to pursue her higher studies — a proud, emotional milestone for me as a mother.

It is said that you are seen more often in London these days than in Kolkata...

Whenever I miss Sana, I pack my bags and head to London. Once there, I slip back into full-time mom mode — making her tea, ensuring she eats well, and taking care of her daily needs. We cherish our time together — from watching plays to dining out. Watching