Kathak exponent Shovana Narayan’s LalitArpan Festival turns 25

On October 8, the 25th Silver Jubilee of the LalitArpan Festival will commence at Delhi’s Stein Auditorium, marking two decades since its inception in 2002. Founded by Kathak exponent Shovana Narayan, tabla maestro Ustad Shafaat Ahmed Khan, and Jyotsna Suri, the festival has showcased over 100 masters of classical performing arts.

The theme this year is 'Tradition, Transition & Transmission', encapsulating the evolution of a living tradition. Narayan emphasizes that tradition is more than mere replication; it thrives on the ability to adapt to changing times. As each generation discovers its artistic language within inherited grammar, transmission becomes crucial.

Knowledge must flow from guru to shishya, from stage to audience. The festival begins with a tribute to 25 renowned dancer-gurus of Delhi, including Vidushi Manjushree Chatterjee and Dr Sonal Mansingh. Suparna Singh and Mahima Satsangi will present 'Yudhishthir & Draupadi', a dance rendition of Pavan K Varma's poem, delving into the emotional depths of this ancient tale.

The evening will conclude with 'Sumang: The Silent Pillars', an exploration of companionship, self-respect, and human values through Kathak, featuring Urmila and Mandodari. Narrated by Sanjukta Sinha's production, Noor, the festival reinforces the idea that transmission does not entail creating replicas of oneself.