Shimla, August 14
St. Thomas’ School, Shimla, in collaboration with SPIC MACAY (Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture Amongst Youth), hosted an enthralling Kathak dance performance by the world-renowned international Kathak exponent, Pandit Rajendra Gangani, accompanying him were Shri Kishore Kumar on the tabla, Shri Vinod Gangani on vocals, and Shri Ravi Sharma on the sarangi.
Pandit Rajendra Gangani, one of the leading exponents of the Jaipur Gharana of Kathak, is celebrated for his remarkable innovation and exceptional technical mastery. His disciples perform and propagate this art form across the globe.
Recipient of the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2003 from the then former President of India, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Pandit Gangani has also been honoured with numerous national and international accolades. He began his Kathak training at the age of four under the guidance of his father and guru, Pandit Kundanlal Gangani. From the grand stages of London’s Queen Elizabeth Hall to the Festival of India in the former Soviet Union, and in major cities worldwide, his performances have captivated and transformed audiences, earning widespread acclaim.
The event was graced by distinguished guests from various artistic fields, including eminent production designer, actor, writer, painter, sculptor, and film & television personality Shri Lalit Bhardwaj; along with well-known theatre personalities Shri Rupesh Bhimta, Shri Vikas Gautam, Ms. Sejal, Ms. Taruna Mishra, and students from the Music Department of Himachal Pradesh University.
Students of the school – Jiya, Priya, Shagun, among others – actively engaged with Pandit Gangani, asking thought-provoking questions about Kathak, which he answered in depth.
Speaking on the occasion, Pandit Gangani expressed his delight at visiting St. Thomas’ School. He remarked, “This art form is expanding rapidly. Art is not bound by gender; it is a spiritual practice, and one must become a true practitioner to master it.” He extended his gratitude to the school’s Principal, Ms. Vidhupriya Chakravarty, Vice-Principal, Mrs. Sharon Nanda, the dignitaries present, and the students.
St. Thomas’ School has been associated with SPIC MACAY since 2008 and, through this collaboration, has regularly showcased various art forms by eminent artists. Principal Ms. Vidhupriya Chakravarty welcomed Pandit Rajendra Gangani, the SPIC MACAY team, and all distinguished guests, and expressed the school’s commitment to hosting such cultural events in the future. She also extended her heartfelt thanks to the print, electronic, and web media for their support and coverage.
