World Dance Day 2024

Date: 29th April 2024

Time: 6:30PM

Venue: M.L. Koser Indoor Auditorium, Sector 35B, Chandigarh

Pracheen Kala Kendra marked International World Dance Day with a mesmerizing evening of Kathak dance performances dedicated to the loving memory of Guru Kanhiya Lal Ji, a Kathak maestro par excellence. The event took place at the M.L. Koser Indoor Auditorium, Chandigarh, showcasing the immense talent of Kendra’s students trained under the esteemed Guru-Shishya Parampara.

Guided by the expert direction of Guru Brij Mohan Gangani, Guru Yogesh Sharma, and Mrs. Rakhi, the event featured over 20 students, each displaying remarkable artistry and technical prowess.

The evening commenced with a delightful performance by the little champs under the tutelage of Mrs. Rakhi, presenting a Kathak piece on the bols of the bhajan “Jai Ganpati Jagvandan.” The young dancers—Mohana, Anarghya, Parisha, Mansi, Tanishi, and Saumya—won the audience’s hearts with graceful expressions and rhythmic precision.

Following this, Guru Yogesh Sharma’s students took centre stage, beginning with a serene Vishnu Vandana on the bols “Shantakaram Bhujagshayanam” performed by Vridhi, Tamanna, Himadri, Aashi, and Anadika. This was followed by a captivating Krishna Vandana in Jhap Taal with the bols “Sawali Surat Man Ko Bhai”, presented by Nahian Chowdhury.

The evening further elevated as Rashi Shukla, a disciple of Guru Brij Mohan Gangani, mesmerized the audience with a dynamic presentation of pure Kathak syllables, including tode, tukde, ladi, paran, and farmaisihi chakkar, highlighting the intricate footwork and technical brilliance of the dance form.

The grand finale featured a powerful Durga Stuti with the bol “Jai Jai Mahakali”, beautifully performed by Unnati Sharma and Akshay Sharma, leaving the audience in awe.

Guru Yogesh Sharma accompanied the talented ensemble on Harmonium and Padant, Unnati Sharma on Vocals, Akshay Sharma and Bhaskar on Tabla, and Guru Brij Mohan Gangani on Padant, adding musical depth to the performances.

The evening concluded with encouragement from Dr Samira Koser (Deputy Registrar, Pracheen Kala Kendra), who applauded the students for their dedication and congratulated the Gurus for their unwavering efforts in nurturing the next generation of Kathak artists.