Minister of State for Education, Technical Education, Culture, Tourism, Department of Horticulture, Floriculture and Parks, Priya Sethi today said that Kathak is one of the ten major forms of Indian classical dances that is performed all over the world.This dance form, she said has achieved such an excellence that its performers have made their name in the international arena.She said, Kathak derived from the Vedic Sanskrit word Katha actually stands for "story" and Kathaka means "he who tells a story" is today performed by professionals and children all over state.
Priya Sethi was speaking at Kala Darpan- 2017 - a Kathak performance which was choreographed by Parul Bhateja who is disciple of Pt. Jai Kishan Maharaj, son of Pt. Birju MaharajShe said that Kathak lends a refreshing touch to one of India’s most loved classical art forms which during colonial period had seen a dip. "Since the art was deeply imbibed in Indian culture and was part of our tradition, it sustained oppressive moves and has reached every nook and corner of the world today," she said. She said three famous Gharanas are known for Kathak and today’s performance is fusion of these Gharnas. Indian Kathak, she said is also appreciated by people abroad and many even say that it shares many visual and rhythmic similarities with Spanish dance performances.Priya Sethi, who was the chief guest at this scintillating performance where KB Jandial former member PSC was guest of honour.Organised by Bhavishya Academy, only Institute in state of J&K, affiliated to Pracheen Kala Kendra Chandigarh, which is an educational organization imparting recognized courses and degrees in the field of Indian classical arts of music, dance and fine arts.Priya Sethi was elated to watch young artists performing with such grace and enthusiasm, she appreciated the level of training provided to the young performers.