Dancing back in time
A dance fest that pays homage to Indian and Persian cultures through Kathak.
The feel of Makar Sakranti hit the capital and all Dilliwalas were in the mood to dance as one should because that’s what one does when festivals are around the corner.
In order to soak in the festive vibes of the harvesting season, the capital got to witness a poetic cultural evening at Shri Ram Auditorium where AAMAD Kathak Dance Centre organized Rang-E-Sukhan, a Kathak dance production that highlighted the shades of poetry which staged over a 100 dancers that boasted of an ensemble of experienced and rookie dancers.
Rani Khanam the choreographer and director of Aamad explains that the concept of the show was to bring together the culture of India and Persia. She continues, “These cultures have been started 1000 of years ago and one can feel the essence of both a temple and a darbar. Through Kathak, we are able to highlight the old age culture of tradition.”
The program commenced with a Ghazal by Daag Dehlavi Kyon Churate Ho Dekhkar Aankhein, Kar Chukken Mere Dil Main Ghar Aankhein presented by Shikha Sharma. Shikha points out that the choreography showcases Mehfil Andaz Kathak of the 19th century. Sharing her experience of performing at the event, She expresses, “The experience was amazing. And this year we learned so many things in detail and I love doing all the productions of Guru Rani Khanam. She always takes care of each and everything from costumes, stage, lighting, makeup. If we are doing something to showcase historical choreography she makes sure the audience gets the feel of that time.”
Along with it, there were many performances such as ‘Dama Dum Mast Qalandar’, which is a spiritual Sufi song, Kedar Sargam based on Raag Kedar and composed in Taal Teentaal 16 Beats presented by Nisha Kesari. Nisha says, “I have performed Tarana in Raag Baageshri, Taal jhaptal which I have performed a solo in front of my Guru. I felt so blessed, this was one of the best experience I had with amazing participants.”
The artists also presented Maalgunji Sargam based on Raag Maalgunji in 16 beats, there was a group performance ‘Geet’ by Swastika Dance 24’s young artists and many more. And lastly, the evening ended with group performances on Sufi Bulle Shah’s most famous Sufi Poetry ‘Tere Ishq Nachaya Karke Thaiyya Thaiyya’.
Khanam concludes, “It is very difficult to define who is Hindu or Muslim. The culture is through ‘tehzeeb’ and ‘sanskar’. It is very important to spread this message in today’s time and is the best way to do with music and poetry.”