'Kathak Darpan' Returns To Nehru Centre, Honouring Birju Maharaj’s Legacy Through Summer Workshop In Mumbai

The Culture Wing of Nehru Centre, Worli,  is organising 'Kathak Darpan' for students of the classical dance form between May 15 and 23, with the grand finale on May 24. A tradition for the last 23 years, the event was once conducted by Kathak maestro, Padma Vibhushan late Pandit Birju Maharaj.

Maharaj's legacy has been continued by his senior disciple, Saswati Sen, who performed and taught with her guru at his institute at Kalashram, New Delhi. Sen is the recipient of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, Sanskrit Award, Shringar Mani Award and Critic's Recommendation Award. 

There is no fees for participating in the workshop. However, there is a selection procedure. "Nehru Center, Mumbai, one of the very famous and recognised organisations promoting art and culture in the country, has been holding workshops during the summer vacation for students to come and learn under senior gurus and masters in different disciplines," said Sen.

Sen describes Maharaj's style as an  universally accepted elegant, aesthetic, and rich form. Students from all over the state, Delhi, Bangalore, Assam, Agartala, and Gujarat have been attending the workshops, creating a family of students who share each other's work and mutually learn from one another and understand some of the beautiful nuances of the great art form. "This spirit, which was ignited and nurtured by my guru, has been a great achievement in Kathak. I always try to maintain those standards," Sen added.

Established in 1990, the Culture Wing of Nehru Centre promotes new talents in music, dance and drama. It also presents classical music programmes, mushaira, kavi sammelan, annual  music and dance festivals, lecture demonstrations by experts, an annual play festival, and a Marathi Sangeet Natak Mohotsava. An annual Megh Malhar features recitals by some of the leading contemporary singers along with promising younger artistes. 

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