Birth centenary event brings together acclaimed artistes from across India to honour the legendary Kathak exponent and inspire young performers
Kurukshetra | Pen of Democracy News Desk
A two-day Classical Dance Festival and Workshop commemorating the birth centenary of legendary Kathak guru Pandit Kundan Lal Gangani began in Kurukshetra on Tuesday, bringing together renowned classical dancers from across the country to celebrate India’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring legacy of one of Kathak’s greatest masters.
The festival has been jointly organised by the Department of Art and Cultural Affairs, Haryana, Nritya Dhara (a cultural organisation), and the Department of Youth and Cultural Affairs, Department of Music and Dance, Kurukshetra University.
Dr Mamta Sachdeva attended the inaugural session as the chief guest, while Prof. Shuchismita presided over the programme. Prof. Asha Pandey, Dr Jagmohan Sharma and Prof. Sunita Dalal were present as distinguished guests.
Classical artistes perform during the birth centenary celebrations of Pandit Kundan Lal Gangani at Kurukshetra University.
Speaking on the occasion, the organisers described Pandit Kundan Lal Gangani as one of the most influential figures in Indian classical dance, whose lifelong dedication elevated Kathak to new artistic heights and inspired generations of disciples.
The opening day featured captivating performances by Vani Madhav and troupe and noted Kathak exponent Vidushi Deepti Gupta, who enthralled the audience with traditional compositions and intricate rhythmic presentations. On the second day, audiences will witness Kathak performances by Dr Mansi Saxena and troupe, along with a Bharatanatyam recital by K.S. Nishreya Varalakshmi.
Besides stage performances, the festival includes an intensive Kathak workshop, offering participants practical training in rhythm (taal), tempo (laya), expressions (abhinaya) and other essential elements of the classical dance form. The workshop aims to provide aspiring dancers with direct exposure to experienced artistes and traditional performance techniques.
Organisers said the birth centenary celebrations seek to connect young people with India’s classical arts while preserving the invaluable legacy of Pandit Gangani, whose contribution to Kathak continues to influence dancers across the country.
They added that the festival is open to students, teachers, researchers and art enthusiasts, creating a platform for cultural exchange and artistic learning.
The organisers also noted that the Haryana Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, has been consistently promoting the state’s artistic and cultural traditions through such initiatives. Kurukshetra University, they said, has played a significant role in preserving and promoting India’s classical performing arts.
The successful organisation of the festival has been supported by Dr Ashok Sharma, Head of the Department of Music and Dance at Kurukshetra University, and Dr Purushottam Kumar, whose contributions have been instrumental in coordinating the event.
