Kathak Meets Flamenco in Bengaluru at 6th Dr Maya Rao Choreography Conference
The vibrant cultural hub of Bengaluru is gearing up to host the sixth edition of the prestigious Dr Maya Rao Kathak and Choreography Conference, scheduled to take place from January 31 to February 1 at the esteemed Sabha cultural space. This significant event is organized by the Natya Institute of Kathak and Choreography (NIKC), promising a rich tapestry of artistic expressions and intellectual discourse.
Celebrating Legacy Through Innovation
According to the NIKC, the conference will be thoughtfully themed around the concept of taking legacy forward without fossilising it. This philosophy reflects Dr Maya Rao's own pioneering spirit, as she was a trailblazing Indian classical dancer and educator renowned for her groundbreaking work in kathak choreography and for popularising this North Indian art form in South India.
In a statement, the NIKC emphasized, "Her work laid the foundation for how choreography is taught, documented, and critically engaged with today. The annual conference honours not just her memory, but her methodology, courage, and insistence that tradition must constantly interrogate itself."
International Collaborations and Performances
The event will feature an impressive lineup of international artistes, enhancing its global appeal. Notable participants include:
- Datuk Ramli Ibrahim, a Malaysian bharatanatyam expert and choreographer, who will engage in a panel discussion with Dr Anita Ratnam on the theme 'Dance Legacy–Presence and Absence'.
- The Singaporean group Flamenco Sin Fronteras, which will present a captivating combined kathak-flamenco performance titled 'Asha Esperanza', performed alongside talented NIKC artistes.
Key Highlights and Curatorial Excellence
The conference is co-curated by a distinguished team:
- Dr Anita Ratnam, a renowned performer and scholar.
- Shoba Narayan, an accomplished author-journalist.
- Madhu Nataraj, the head of NIKC and daughter of the late Kathak pioneer Dr Maya Rao.
Scheduled events include a keynote address by Dr Sandhya Purecha, a noted Bharatnatyam practitioner and the chairperson of New Delhi's Sangeet Natak Akademi. The program will encompass a series of panel discussions, performances, and themed exhibits, offering a comprehensive exploration of dance and choreography.
ETHOS|ECHOES|EXPRESSIONS Exhibition
In connection with the conference, a two-day exhibition titled ETHOS|ECHOES|EXPRESSIONS will be organized. This exhibition aims to connect deeply with the legacy of Dr Maya Rao, providing attendees with an immersive experience that echoes her contributions to the world of dance.
This event not only celebrates the rich heritage of Indian classical dance but also fosters cross-cultural dialogues, as seen in the innovative fusion of kathak and flamenco, making it a must-attend for dance enthusiasts and cultural aficionados in Bengaluru and beyond.
