A special dance evening was organized by the Center for Ancient Arts on World Dance Day, commemorating the renowned Kathak guru Kanhaiya Lal ji. The evening featured beautiful Kathak dance performances by the center’s students and those learning under the Guru Shishya tradition. Under the guidance of the center’s three dance teachers – Guru Brij Mohan Gangani, Yogesh Sharma, and Rakhi – the students showcased their talents in the M.L. Kausar Auditorium from 6:30 pm. Approximately 20 students participated, captivating the audience with their dance performances. Led by Rakhi, young children started the evening with a bhajan rendition and a Kathak dance piece, ‘Ganpati Jagvandan,’ featuring Mohana, Anarghya, Parisha, Mansi, Tanishi, and Soumya, which received high praise from the audience. Following this, Guru Yogesh Sharma’s students presented the ‘Vishnu Vandana’ with the enchanting composition ‘Shantakaram Bhujagashayanam,’ performed excellently by Vriddhi, Tamanna, Aashi, and Anadika.
Under the guidance of Guru Brij Mohan Gangani, Rashi Shukla presented a series of pure Kathak movements including Gat, Amad, Uthaan, Farmaishi Toda, and Ladi. This was followed by ‘Krishna Vandana’ presented by Guru Yogesh Sharma’s disciples, with Nahiyan, a student from Bangladesh, captivating the audience.
Next, ‘Durga Stuti’ was performed, featuring Unnati Sharma and Lakshya Panwar, receiving applause for their beautiful portrayal of ‘Jai Jai Mahakali.’ The exemplary training provided by the teachers was evident in the performances of all the students, captivating the audience with their Kathak dance.
Accompanied by Akshay Sharma on tabla, Unnati Sharma on vocals, Guru Yogesh Sharma on padant, Guru Brij Mohan Gangani, and Bhaskar on tabla, the students delivered remarkable performances.
Dr. Sameera Kausar, Deputy Registrar of the Centre, praised and encouraged the students for their outstanding performances.