Raas- The Kathak Studio, a premiere Kathak Institute based in Sector 137, Noida, presented a glorious evening of Kathak, at the Triveni Kala Sangam , Mandi House, New Delhi .
The event titled “Anant Prabha” was curated and choreographed by the Founder of the institute Smt Richa Srivastava, a distinguished kathak Dancer of the Lucknow Gharana of Kathak, who has received her training in Kathak from Pt, Jaikishan Maharaj, son of Kathak maestro Pt. Birju Maharaj.
The evening saw some extremely nuanced performances in pure Kathak performed by over 30 students of the Institute. The rich cultural heritage of the lucknow gharana of Kathak was on display.According to Mrs Richa “Art encourages creativity and self expression, the most innate essence of being a human. Any art nurtures and blooms when presented before the right kind of audience. When we train someone in any kind of performing arts, it becomes imperative to present those students with an opportunity to showcase their talent.”
Richa also believes that students must train in Indian classical arts. In these times of extreme modernization and opulence, the children need to be made aware of their ancient roots and traditions, through these classical art forms , which are deeply seeped and rooted in rich ancient Indian traditions, and heritage; and through her Institute she wants to keep promoting Kathak and it’s rich heritage
As the name Anant Prabha suggests, the show through various Kathak Choregraphies, emphaisised the need for of continous learning and eveolving.Richa believs that Life is an endless process of learning and growth and we must strive for excellence as kong as we live, and there is always a light that will keep guiding us to be on the right path.
The event began with an ode to Lord Ganesha, on the eve of Ganesh Chaturthi, followed by various Kathak recitals based on Teen taal.
The highlight of the evening was a choreography based on Hindu Bhakti Saint Shri Vallabhacharya’s Sanskrit ashtakam ” Madhurashtrakam” performed by Senior Students of the institute.
The event ended with a special performance by teg renowned Kathak Danseuse Anukriti Vishkarma who showcased her choreographic work” Rang” celebrating the Unity and diversity of faiths
