Renowned Kathak dancer Deepak Maharaj to lead workshops on Indian performing arts
MANDI: The Sangeet Natak Akademi, New Delhi, an autonomous body under the Union Ministry of Culture, is continuing with its mission to preserve and promote India’s rich cultural heritage through its flagship initiative ‘Kala Dharohar’ series.
The initiative, launched in line with the National Education Policy (NEP), seeks to raise awareness about Indian performing arts among students nationwide.
Promoting Indian art through ‘Kala Dharohar’
The Akademi’s ‘Kala Dharohar’ series plays a pivotal role in spreading knowledge about India’s diverse performing arts. The primary aim of this initiative is to foster an appreciation for performing arts at national, regional and local levels, making these cultural treasures more accessible to students and the general public. Through this programme, lectures, workshops and performances are organised to engage students and provide them with direct exposure to the world of Indian arts.
Under this initiative, distinguished and award-winning artists, gurus and scholars are invited to mentor and interact with students. These interactive sessions offer students the unique opportunity to learn directly from experts, nurturing their understanding of Indian culture and heritage. This initiative is crucial for developing emerging talent and ensuring the continuation of India’s vibrant artistic traditions.
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Nationwide celebration of Meera Bai’s legacy
In celebration of the 525th birth anniversary of Saint Meera Bai, the ‘Kala Dharohar’ series will focus on her life and contributions through various programmes organised across the country. The Akademi’s efforts in this regard began in Haryana and have now expanded to different government schools and universities throughout India.
Workshops in Himachal Pradesh schools
As part of this celebration, Sangeet Natak Akademi, in collaboration with the Department of Language and Culture, Himachal Pradesh, will hold the ‘Kala Dharohar’ series in five schools across the state on October 7 and 8, 2024. This special event aims to introduce students to Indian performing arts through hands-on experience and learning opportunities with leading artists.
PM Shri Rajkiya Model Girls Senior Secondary School, located in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, has been selected as the venue for the 56th edition of the series. The school will host a two-day workshop on October 7 and 8, where students will be immersed in a deep exploration of the life and art of Saint Meera Bai.
The highlight of the workshop will be a special Kathak dance training session led by Delhi-based Kathak maestro, Deepak Maharaj. Maharaj, renowned for his exceptional mastery of the traditional dance form, will offer students a unique learning experience focused on Meera Bai’s life and legacy, as interpreted through Kathak dance. This interaction will allow students to engage directly with one of India’s leading Kathak artists, enhancing their understanding of the performing arts and fostering a deeper appreciation of India’s cultural heritage.
The ‘Kala Dharohar’ series is not only contributing to the promotion of Indian performing arts but is also shaping the next generation of artists and cultural enthusiasts. Through such initiatives, the Sangeet Natak Akademi is ensuring that students across India are introduced to the rich traditions of Indian culture, empowering them to carry this legacy forward.
