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Kumudini Lakhia’s Passing: Renowned Kathak dancer Kumudini Lakhia passed away at 94, leaving a legacy that reshaped the dance form.
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Lakhia’s Kathak Innovation:
- Challenged the traditional storytelling focus of Kathak (Krishna-Radha, Shiva-Parvati).
- Emphasized “art for art’s sake,” focusing on movement, rhythm, and form.
- Transformed Kathak from solo to group ensemble performances.
- Incorporated contemporary themes and abstract concepts.
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Pioneer and Influencer: She encouraged questioning tradition and expressing the “unsaid” in Kathak.
- She charted her course in Kathak — in form, presentation, costumes and influencing several young dancers of succeeding generations
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Notable Works: Duvidha (1971), which
delved into internal conflict of a woman yearning for a life beyond domestic confines & Dhabkar (Pulse), Lakhia removed the dupatta from the torso and let the girls dance comfortably. -
Awards and Recognition: Padma Shri (1987), Padma Bhushan (2010), Padma Vibhushan (2024).
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Early Training: Trained under Pt Sundar Prasad (Jaipur gharana) and Pt Shambhu Maharaj (Lucknow gharana)
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PM Modi’s Condolences: Called
her an “outstanding cultural icon” and a “true pioneer.” -
Kathak Basics:
- Classical Indian dance from North India, blending Hindu and Mughal traditions.
- Key elements: Tatkar (footwork), Chakkar (spins), Abhinaya (expression).
- Major gharanas: Jaipur, Lucknow, and Banaras.
- Linked to Hindustani (North Indian) music.
Kathak: Dance of Story
