Key Highlights
- Two-day Kathak workshop held at Gaiety Theatre, Shimla
- Conducted by international Kathak gurus Vidyagauri Adkar and Muzaffar Mulla
- 20 participants trained in beginner, intermediate, and advanced groups
- Focus on tatkaar, amad, tode, paran, layakari, abhinaya, and stage presentation
- Concluding ceremony graced by Pandit Kashmiri Lal Shirakat
Workshop Details
Shimla, July 11, 2026: The rhythmic jingle of ankle bells and the beat of Kathak filled the rehearsal hall of Gaiety Theatre as the 'Kathak Aavartan' workshop entered its second day. The workshop, aimed at imparting the nuances of Kathak dance, saw active participation from around 20 enthusiasts.
The session, running from 10 am to 1 pm, was led by internationally acclaimed Kathak gurus Vidyagauri Adkar and Muzaffar Mulla. Participants were divided into beginner, intermediate, and advanced groups based on their proficiency, ensuring personalized attention and effective learning.
Training Focus
During the training, emphasis was laid on key aspects of Kathak including tatkaar (footwork), amad (entry), tode (break patterns), paran (rhythmic compositions), layakari (tempo variations), abhinaya (expression), and stage presentation. Each participant received individual feedback on technical corrections, rhythmic strengthening, and effective stage performance.
Participants and Support
The participants included Indu, Tamanna, Sonia, Monika, Palak, Sonika, Pihu, Vikram, Rekha, Diksha, Ekta, Aditya, Simran, Isha, Geetanjali, Vandana, Swati, and Sarvesh. Supporting artists Sahil, Nikhil Devalasia, Sakshi Sharma, Rishita Singh Kanwar, and Sonia played crucial roles in the workshop's smooth conduct.
Concluding Ceremony
The workshop concluded on Sunday with Pandit Kashmiri Lal Shirakat as the chief guest. Participants were honored, and experiences were shared during the closing event.
About the Gurus
Vidyagauri Adkar is an A-grade artist of Doordarshan Delhi and an empanelled artist of ICCR. She trained under Pandit Rajendra Gangani and Guru Jafar Mulla, and has performed in India and abroad. Muzaffar Mulla is a graded Doordarshan artist, choreographer, and founder of Kala Teerth Kathak Academy. He learned Kathak from Guru Jafar Mulla and Pandit Rajendra Gangani, and has represented Indian classical dance on prestigious stages worldwide.
FAQ
Who conducted the Kathak workshop in Shimla?
International Kathak gurus Vidyagauri Adkar and Muzaffar Mulla conducted the workshop.
How many participants attended the workshop?
Around 20 participants took part in the training session.
What was the venue for the workshop?
The workshop was held at the Gaiety Theatre's rehearsal hall in Shimla.
Who was the chief guest at the concluding ceremony?
Pandit Kashmiri Lal Shirakat was the chief guest on the concluding day.