Latest news with #BMKS
Time of India
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
‘Kathak is incomplete sans Lachchhu Maharaj's touch'
1 2 Lucknow: Birju Maharaj Kathak Sansthan paid tribute to Kathak legend Pandit Lacchu Maharaj through 'Guru Smaran', a commemorative event, at Rai Umanath Bali auditorium on Saturday. The evening commenced with students presenting 'guru ashtakam'. Chief guest Anil Rastogi, a veteran actor and senior dramatist, shared personal memories of his association with Lacchu Maharaj. "His insightful feedback on Darpan's theatrical productions was invaluable to me as a director," Rastogi recalled. Prof Mandavi Singh, who has researched the maestro's contribution, emphasised his significance to Kathak. "The art form is incomplete without Lacchu Maharaj's innovations, his influence was so profound that my guru, his student, mentioned him daily, inspired me to research on him," she said. The highlight of the evening was a documentary showcasing Lacchu Maharaj's illustrious journey, from his early training under his father and brother to his successful stint in Hindi film industry, where he choreographed iconic films like 'Mughal-e-Azam', 'Kala Pani' and 'Pakeezah', besides his photographs while teaching his students and several performances. BMKS president Kum Kum Dhar Choudhary, director Sanjay Kumar Singh and assistant director Tuhin Diwedi were present.
Time of India
16-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Classical dance performances marks end of workshop
Lucknow: The month-long summer workshop organized by Pandit Birju Maharaj Kathak Sansthan (BMKS) concluded on a high note with a spectacular showcase of classical dance performances at Kala Mandapam on Monday. Prof Mandavi Singh, vice chancellor of Bhatkhande Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, and Sanjay Kumar Singh, special secretary of culture department, graced the occasion as chief guests. The evening commenced with a soul-stirring Saraswati Vandana, 'Kudendu Tushar Har Dhavla' in raag bhopali. Students then presented a vilambit composition on the bhajan 'Achaytum Sundaram Damodaram', followed by an enchanting Vishnu Vandana. The highlight of the evening was a delightful performance set to 'Jaa Tose Nahi Bolungi Kanhaiya', which beautifully portrayed the playful romance between characters through classical Kathak movements. Programme ended with a riveting dance drama 'Vishnu Avatar Narsingh' performed by artist Upasna Dixit. The musical accompaniment was directed by Meena Verma and Anand Dixit. BMKS president Kum Kum Dhar and vice president Mithilesh Tiwari were present. The event showcased the rich cultural heritage of classical dance while highlighting the institution's commitment to nurturing young talent in the field of Kathak.
