Kathak Upasana is a curated 3-day festival held at Upasana Space, designed to celebrate the evolution of this ancient art form. Over three evenings, we bring together incredible artists to tell the story of Kathak from the sacred silence of temples to the vibrant energy of the modern stage.

The Three-Day Journey

Day 1 (May 15): Temple Traditions Experience the origins of Kathak. This evening focuses on Bhakti Rasa, featuring stories from our Itihasa and Puranas told through traditional temple dance styles.

Performances:

Invocation by the Upasana Collective

1. Madhurashtakam by Suchetha Venkataramaiah

2. Vandana by Dr Swanil Satyambada

3. Rudrashtakam & Dhamaar Taal by Manisha Ramachandra

Day 2 (May 16): Courtly Splendour Travel to the era of the Maharajas. This session highlights the technical brilliance, Shringara (romance), and Adbhuta (wonder) of the courtly era, featuring Thumris and Taranas.

1. Thumari & Jhaptaal Tarana by Shreenidhi and Shambhavee

2. Ganapathi Moorat, Ghazal & Malhar Tarana (Lucknow Gharana Style) by Poojashree C G

3. Thumari (composed by Bindadin Maharaji ji) by Deepti Hasabi

4. Nuances of Drut Teentaal & Tarana in Raag Kaushi Kanada by Naveen R. Hegde

Day 3 (May 17): Contemporary Expressions Witness the future of the art form. The final day showcases modern visions and versatile narratives, proving that Kathak is a living, breathing language that continues to evolve.

1. Meenakshi Pancharatnam by the Upasana Collective

2. Journey Of A Global Artist (Kathak on K-Pop) by Ruchika Bhat

3. Karmanya by the Upasana Collective