Lucknow : Bhatkhande Sanskriti University, under the visionary leadership of its Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mandavi Singh, celebrated World Dance Day with great enthusiasm and cultural fervor. The highlight of the event was the launch of a unique book authored by Dr. Ruchi Khare, titled “Kathak: A Therapeutic Perspective Based on Clinical Research.” The book is based on her PhD research, awarded by the former Bhatkhande Music Institute Deemed University (now Bhatkhande Sanskriti University) in 2013.
Dr. Khare conducted her research under the joint guidance of renowned Kathak exponent Dr. Purnima Pandey, co-supervisor Dr. Siddharth Kumar Das (Retd. Head, Arthritis Department, KGMU), and Dr. Narendra Dev, a senior acupressure expert. Her research explored the therapeutic potential of Kathak dance, particularly for patients suffering from arthritis. The study involved a three-month clinical observation which concluded that patients who combined medication with Kathak therapy showed significantly better improvement compared to those relying solely on medication.
The book launch was graced by eminent personalities including Padma Shri Malini Awasthi, Padma Shri Vidya Bindu Singh, and Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mandavi Singh, who jointly unveiled the publication. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries such as Dr. Kumkum Dhar (Chairperson, Pt. Birju Maharaj Kathak Sansthan), Dr. Purnima Pandey, Pt. Ram Mohan Maharaj (renowned exponent of the Lucknow Gharana), Prof. Gyanendra Datt Bajpai (Head of the Dance Department), Prof. Srishti Mathur (Dean, Vocal Music Faculty), and Dr. Manoj Kumar Mishra. Distinguished Kathak artists like Pt. Dharmanath Mishra, Dr. Veena Singh, Dr. Meera Dixit, and Dr. Renu Sharma were also present, along with Registrar Dr. Srishti Dhawan.
The cultural program began with an elegant Bharatanatyam performance by postgraduate students Anant Sharma, Vaishnavi Mishra, and undergraduate student Priya, who showcased intricate elements like Alarippu, Jatiswaram, and Shabdam. Their performance was supported by:
-
Nattuvangam: Gyanendra Datt Bajpai
-
Mridangam: Sudhir Kumar
-
Vocals: Lalita Ganesh
-
Violin: Shinjari Sahu
Following this, mesmerizing Kathak presentations were delivered by faculty members Dr. Priyanka Yadav and Dr. Prerna Rana, comprising three segments:
-
Kali Stuti – “Mata Kalika”, in Raag Adana, Taal Addha
-
Traditional Pure Dance – in Teentaal
-
Expressive Dance (Abhinaya) – A thumri performance with graceful emotive display
Accompanying artists included:
-
Tabla: Vikas Mishra
-
Vocals & Harmonium: Arif Khan
-
Sarangi: Manish Mishra
-
Padhant: Anshika Kataria
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Dr. Ruchi Khare to the media, guests, and participants. The celebration not only highlighted the cultural and educational value of dance, but also presented a groundbreaking therapeutic dimension, offering a fresh perspective for researchers and students alike. The event stood as a testament to Bhatkhande Sanskriti University’s commitment to innovation in the performing arts under the dynamic leadership of Prof. Mandavi Singh.
