ROOTED by the UNIVERSE
We are shaped by love, strengthened by community, and connected through the universal bonds that define us. (Click on images for the videos)
Guru Shishya
This piece highlights the long standing teacher-pupil relationship, showing the classroom basics of taatkar (footwork), hasthakas (arm movements), and chakras (spins) with live instruments before transitioning to Alisha’s first performance with her Guru.
Vishnu Stoti
This piece highlights Lord Vishnu, the preserver in the Hindu triumvirate, known for his strength, charm, and occasional vanity. It is performed in the rare pattern of Dhamaar Taal (a 14-beat cycle) and is considered one of the most difficult technical pieces in Kathak. Alisha performs alongside her Kathak classmates.
Chaaturaang
This dance highlights the many artistic talents of Lord Krishna—his flute, drumming, and graceful movement—while honoring his role as the god of protection and love. Through expressive choreography and advanced tukras, the piece conveys deep devotion and admiration for Krishna.
Shiva
This powerful Shiva Tandav showcases the fierce and divine energy of Lord Shiva, the God of Dance and Destruction, through intricate Kathak rhythms and vivid storytelling. The piece captures Shiva’s many forms, from serene meditation to dynamic dance. Composed by Guru Divyang Vakil.
ROOTED by CULTURE
Culture, stories, and traditions are the roots that ground us and shape who we are, weaving values, meaning into who we become.
(Click on pictures for video)
Ganesha Vandana
This piece uses kavits (poems) and tukras (technical pieces) to showcase Ganesha’s characteristics and the technical side of Kathak. It is an ode that marks a new endeavor in life.
Ganesh Paran
This piece is a unique depiction of Lord Ganesha through a Paran, showcasing his strength and warrior-like qualities through expressive movement. It highlights key moments from his story—his elephant head, heroic acts, and his vahan, the mouse Mushak—set to a 12-beat cycle called Chautaal, unlike the more common 16-beat rhythm Teentaal.
Dareja
This piece explores the revered love story of Radha and Krishna—Krishna, a wise yet playful god known for his mischief, and Radha, a selfless devotee recognized as a goddess for her pure love. Their bond, filled with teasing and affection, reflects a divine connection rooted in deep devotion and spiritual unity.
Thumri
This semi-classical Thumri, sung by Shreya Ghoshal and composed by the legendary Pandit Birju Maharaj, blends folk-inspired storytelling with intricate Kathak technique. The piece portrays Radha’s grace and playfulness as she fetches water, playfully teased by Krishna, capturing the charm and depth of their divine relationship.
Self Choreography
Samjhawan, Humma Humma, Titli
Guru Sheila Ji requires every dancer to choreograph their own dance to demonstrate their fundamental understanding of Kathak technique and music theory, as well as their ability to create their own pieces as artists.