Event Details

Kathak by Saswati Sen & troupe
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Gujarati Folk Dance by Avani Shah & troupe

Saswati Sen received her initial training at Delhi’s Kathak Kendra under the guidance of Reba Vidyarthi. She received the National Scholarship in Performing Arts and graduated to become the prime disciple of Birju Maharaj. Sen is a recipient of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, the Sanskriti Award and the title of Shringar Mani by the Sur Singar Samsad, among others. She is regarded as an artiste with immense versatility and talent and is one of the best exponents of the famed Lucknow gharana. As Secretary of Kalashram, Sen is the driving force behind Maharaj’s dream institution.

Avani Shah is a trained Bharatanatyam and Kathak dancer who went on to become a choreographer, transitioning from Varnam to Swarnam, two renowned organisations that promote Gujarati folk arts. She now choreographs her own troupe, NrityAvani.

The theme of aharya beautifully complements Gujarati folk dance, enhancing its vibrancy, storytelling and cultural essence. Dances like Garba, Dandiya Raas and Tippani are renowned for their colourful, intricate costumes that are not just decorative but carry deep cultural significance, often symbolising prosperity and auspiciousness. Shah and her troupe will be recreating the vivaciousness of the folk dances of Gujarat at this festival.

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