Nrityanjali’s Kathak Ballet pays homage to Ahilyabai Holkar

Nrityanjali students presenting Kathak Ballet on World Dance Day.
Nrityanjali students presenting Kathak Ballet on World Dance Day.

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 3: In a vibrant celebration of World Dance Day, Nrityanjali: A Classical Dance Academy hosted a mesmerizing cultural evening at its ‘Amphitheatre’ in Gharonda, Talab Tillo Road, Hazuri Bagh, Jammu.
The highlight of the evening was a spellbinding Kathak Ballet that paid tribute to the legendary Ahilyabai Holkar, conceptualized and choreographed by renowned Kathak exponent Dr Priya Dutta.
The ballet brought alive the life and contributions of Ahilyabai Holkar, one of India’s most revered women leaders. Dr Priya Dutta, accompanied by her talented disciples, led the performance. The music track was masterfully curated by a professional team including Guru Purshotam Kumar, Samuel MasihSami, Amarjeet Singh, Rajkumar Behrupia, Vijay Kumar and Dr Priya Dutta herself.
The evening began with Kathak presentation in traditional style. The grandeur of the live ensemble elevated the experience, featuring Dr Priya Dutta on Padhant, Rajkumar Behrupia on Harmonium, Vijay Kumar on Tabla, Parshotam Kumar on Pakhawaj and Bindu Sharma on Sitar.
A range of students showcased their talents, including Ritika Sountra, Sonia Devi, Sabha Majid, Manu Saini, Simpy, Pragya Sharma, Akshita Lamba, Radhika Sharma, Maithili, Ojasvi Gupta, Aadya Sharma, Naamya Mangotra, Spriha Sharma, Anandita Dutt, Annaya, Aaradhya, Namasya, Maiyra, Bhavani, Madhvi, Devanshi, Kangana, Ridhi, Agamya, Aryahi, Aarvi, and Aaradhya.
Padma Shri (Prof) Lalit Mangotra, the chief guest, acknowledged the academy’s efforts and praised Dr Priya Dutta’s dedication to promoting classical art. RJ Juhi Mohan and RJ Shwetma Jamwal also expressed admiration for the event and its community support.
In her welcome address, Dr Priya Dutta thanked her team and the parents for their unwavering support. The event also included a solemn tribute to the victims of the recent Pahalgam tragedy.
Anchored by Rajkumar Behrupia, the evening reaffirmed Nrityanjali’s commitment to preserving India’s cultural heritage through classical dance.