‘Naman’ Showcases the Richness of Indian Classical Dance Through Bharatanatyam and Kathak

Krishnam Performing Arts Academy Presents ‘Naman’, Celebrating the Richness of Indian Classical Dance

Bengaluru: Krishnam Performing Arts Academy recently presented Naman, an evening celebrating the richness, diversity and enduring legacy of two of India’s celebrated classical dance traditions — Bharatanatyam and Kathak — at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Race Course Road, Bengaluru.

The programme brought together eminent Bharatanatyam artiste Guru Sri Sathyanarayana Raju and renowned Kathak exponent Guru Vidushi Durga Arya Ji, alongside Kathak artistes Vidushi Seema Krishnan and Vidushi Sampada Pillai. The evening also featured performances by students of Seema Krishnan, highlighting the vital role of rigorous training, mentorship and the Guru-Shishya Parampara in sustaining India’s classical arts.

The occasion was graced by distinguished personalities from the Indian classical dance fraternity, Dr. Padmaja Suresh and Smt. Vyjayanthi Kashi, who attended as the Chief Guests.

The evening opened with Tridevata Stuti, presented by Seema Krishnan and her team. Invoking the blessings of Lord Shiva, Goddess Durga and Lord Krishna, the presentation established a devotional and contemplative tone. This was followed by Aawat Shyaam, a thumri performed by Seema Krishnan, featuring a composition by the legendary Pandit Birju Maharaj Ji. Her students subsequently presented Ullash, a vibrant choreographic work distinguished by synchronised movements and a cohesive ensemble presentation.

A significant highlight of the Kathak segment was Dwaya, a duet by Seema Krishnan and Sampada Pillai. Conceptualised and choreographed by the two artistes, the work explored the nuances of individual personalities, the complexities of human relationships and the harmony that can emerge from contrasting perspectives. Through the interplay of movement, rhythm and expression, the presentation reflected on the beauty of differences and the possibilities of coexistence.

Representing the Bharatanatyam tradition, Sathyanarayana Raju presented a varnam and a javali, bringing together technical virtuosity and expressive depth. His performance showcased the intricate movement vocabulary, nuanced abhinaya and aesthetic refinement that characterise the classical form.

Guru Vidushi Durga Arya Ji brought the evening to a compelling close with a varied Kathak repertoire that included Ardhang, centred on Lord Shiva, a Krishna bhajan, a thumri and a technical composition in teentaal. Her presentation seamlessly brought together devotional expression, rhythmic complexity and the expressive richness of Kathak, leaving the audience with a vivid impression of the form’s versatility.

Through Naman, Krishnam Performing Arts Academy created a platform where established artistes and emerging performers shared the stage in a celebration of India's classical dance heritage. While Bharatanatyam and Kathak retain their distinctive movement vocabularies, aesthetics and performance traditions, the programme brought into focus their shared foundations in rhythm, storytelling, expression and devotion.

More than a showcase of accomplished performances, Naman reaffirmed the importance of creating meaningful platforms for classical arts — spaces that honour the contributions of senior artistes, encourage artistic dialogue across traditions and inspire younger generations to engage with and carry forward this invaluable cultural legacy.