| Kathak
- Past Forward
Kathak
makes a distinctive contribution to the education of all students
in that it uses movements, which is the fundamental mode of
human expression. It offers a range of learning opportunities
and enables participants to enjoy physical expression, to
develop intellectual sensibilities and to develop an understanding
of the shaping of movements into an artistic form of expression.
One such opportunity the budding Kathak exponents
gained was a four day workshop at the beginning of July 2005
with Guru and Maestro, Pandit Birju Maharaj. The workshop,
hosted at the institution FPA at Wembley, saw an interesting
group of Kathak students from various Kathak teachers keen
to learn from this great master.
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As time went by I discussed with Panditji the various aspects
of the ISTD Kathak syllabus on Kathak dance. From the elements
of the foundation in Kathak, to the finer nuances of this
dance form, all were touched upon.
The workshop entailed elements and concepts from the Kathak
syllabus. It also adhered to already learnt elements and added
relevant tools to build upon.
Maharajji also commented on the ISTD syllabus as giving a
holistic foundation for grade and vocational dance based careers
and also performers.
The ISTD syllabus on Kathak gives an interdisciplinary approach
linked with studies in ballet, contemporary dance, etc. The
course is a balance between the traditional aspects and the
modern focus.
Pandit Birju Maharaj pointed out, that the ISTD syllabus also
engages students in a comparative understanding of Kathak
between the Asian and the Western perspectives.
The general consensus is to develop the skills and understanding
of Kathak and Bharantanatyam and at the same time build a
second technique by developing the physical ability to communicate
through movements in an expressive and artistic way.
The four day experience at the workshop was a magical one.
I witnessed the practitioners learn from the home of Kathak
and I had a vision of the dance form, cradled by the ISTD
syllabus, recipients soon reaching worldwide.
Gauri Tripathi
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