Key Facts
Shimla's historic Gaiety Theatre echoed with the rhythmic beats of Kathak as the second day of the Kathak Aavartan Karyashala unfolded on Saturday. The workshop, which began on July 11, 2026, saw around 20 participants learning the intricacies of this classical dance form under the guidance of renowned gurus.
Workshop Details
The training session, held from 10 am to 1 pm, was conducted by international Kathak gurus Vidyagauri Adakar and Muzaffar Mulla. Participants were divided into beginner, intermediate, and advanced groups based on their proficiency, ensuring personalized attention. The curriculum included intensive practice of tatkaar (footwork), aamad (entry), tode (break patterns), paran (rhythmic compositions), layakari (rhythmic variations), abhinaya (expression), and stage presentation techniques.
Participant Engagement
Students practiced with dedication and discipline, focusing on layakari, footwork, hand gestures, and emotional expression. The gurus provided individual feedback, correcting technical errors, strengthening rhythmic precision, and offering tips for effective stage presence. Among the participants were Indu, Tamanna, Sonia, Monika, Palak, Sonika, Pihu, Vikram, Rekha, Diksha, Ekta, Aditya, Simran, Isha, Geetanjali, Vandana, Swati, and Sarvesh. Supporting artists included Sahil, Nikhil Devalasiya, Sakshi Sharma, Rishita Singh Kanwar, and Soniya.
Impact and Significance
The workshop not only honed the skills of aspiring dancers but also promoted the rich cultural heritage of Kathak in Himachal Pradesh. Such initiatives provide a platform for local artists to learn from masters and enhance their artistry. The event is expected to inspire more people to take up classical dance.
What Readers Should Know
The workshop will conclude on Sunday, July 12, with Pandit Kashmiri Lal Shirakat as the chief guest. Participants will be felicitated and will share their experiences. The gurus, Vidyagauri Adakar and Muzaffar Mulla, are highly accomplished: Adakar is a Doordarshan A-grade artist and ICCR empanelled artist trained under Pandit Rajendra Gangani and Jafar Mulla; Mulla is a Doordarshan graded artist, choreographer, and founder of Kalateerth Kathak Academy, trained under the same gurus.
FAQ
What is the Kathak Aavartan Karyashala?
It is a two-day Kathak workshop held at Gaiety Theatre in Shimla, aimed at teaching the nuances of Kathak dance to participants of all levels.
Who conducted the workshop?
International Kathak gurus Vidyagauri Adakar and Muzaffar Mulla conducted the training sessions.
How many participants attended the workshop?
Around 20 participants from various backgrounds took part in the workshop.
What topics were covered in the workshop?
The workshop covered tatkaar, aamad, tode, paran, layakari, abhinaya, and stage presentation techniques.