Sharing compelling stories and driving hard-hitting, purposeful messages to bring about meaningful changes in society is what Indian classical dances do aptly. In doing so, the ages-old dance form Kathak stands true to its name, justifying its emotive style for accurate storytelling.
Such captivating messages about saving the Ganga river from pollution, women empowerment, self-realization and achieving enlightenment through mindful efforts to conquer negativity manifesting itself in many forms came to life as ‘kathakars’ expressed themselves through intricate emotions and riveting renditions on October 5 at Shah Audatorium in New Delhi.
Deriving its roots from Vedic Sanskrit word, ‘Katha’ that means story, and ‘Kathakar’ implying the person who tells the story, Kathak is all about narrations through complex steps, movements, poise, grace and facial expressions in perfect movement with taal (cycle of beats) and lay (rhythm).
Presented by the Danspiration Academy, run by Kathak Guru Rupa Bhattacharya, the dance-drama rendition – ‘Echoes of Etenity: Two Profound Kathak journeys – The Self’s Evolution and Earth’s Essence’ – brought together over 170 students from varying age groups from 4 years old to 65 years, driving home the point that age is no barrier to learning.
Kathakars set the tone for the evening with their enthralling ‘Ganga Avataran’ performance that showcased the importance of fighting pollution in the Ganga river, and how rivers are the backbone of human civilization and why their conservation is the need of the hour.
Followed it the beguiling rendition of ‘Ashtanayika’ comprising eight heroines who showed themselves navigating through complex emotional landscapes to evolve and redefine themselves in modern times, showcasing the conviction of women in achieving their goals and empowering themselves.
Talking about the positive impact such performances create, Guru Bhattacharya says, “Our goal is to bring awareness in the society through Kathak performances as people are able to connect instantly with the messages reaching them in the form artistic expressions. Our students who practice tirelessly are able to deliver strong messages in a very soft, yet powerful and enchanting way that the audience is able to grasp easily. They turn into messengers in performances like these in a bid to drive social change. This is something I am very proud about.”
On Kathak’s role in shaping children’s personality and inculcating in students of any age the value of discipline and humility, she says the very beginning of every practice starts with ‘Namaskar’, the bowing down to the divine and the Guru, to seek their blessings. “It builds a sense of letting go of ego in the students. That is the very start of any performance or practice. In life, it is a big learning for our students who happen to benefit from it immensely by applying it in various aspects of their lives.
“Similarly, the basic foot movement ‘Tatkaar’ in which 4-5 and 8-9 foot movement has to happen on the same leg requires a lot of focus. Without concentration, students are bound to keep making mistakes that hinders their progress. This is where they understand the value of discipline and focus.”
While these qualities play a significant role in young students’ lives in the way they lead it with confidence and discipline, they help older students too as they can focus better on things that are important in life, Guru Bhattacharya says. “By learning how to concentrate as the students master intricate Kathak movements, they are able to keep themselves away from negativity and stress as well. All of it cumulatively help students to lead a fulfilled life and deal with challenges in today’s stressful environment with poise.”
On her experience of participating in the Annual Day for the second consecutive year under the fold of the Danspration Academy, affiliated to Prayag University in Allahabad, 8-year-old Aaliya Dass says, “I am very happy to learn Kathak. With these shows, I am no longer frightful of the stage. I now love performing and look forward to the Annual Show all year round.”
The Academy also runs batches for women and working professionals who can learn the dance form by choosing for weekend classes.
“I wanted to learn Kathak since I was a kid but I wasn’t able to do that. With the convenience of weekend batch, I can now fulfill my dream. I gave my first group stage performance on Sunday and it has been an incredible experience. Learning classical dance form has helped me greatly to live stress-free and become grounded,” says Kanchan Dass who began learning Kathak in her 40s.
Kathak exponent Vidushi Mahua Shankar graced the event as the Chief Guest. Asked how she looks at Gen Z’s inclination to western dance styles, Shankar says, “Kathak is timeless. Its popularity is only growing not just in India, but abroad as well. As an artist I respect all dance forms. Still with conviction I can say that nothing can challenge the place of classical dance forms, including Kathak, as they are the base. Kathak is definitely evolving with time to suit the aspirations of students and learners.”