- The audience was mesmerized by the captivating performances of classical singing, Bharatanatyam and Kathak.
- Dr. Aarti Singh along with 10 students presented Kathak, ‘Shiva Panchakshar Stotra’ and the expression of the rainy season enthralled the audience.
The Culture Department, Government of Chhattisgarh, organized “Pavas Prasanga” in the capital Raipur under the Departmental Event-2026. Held at the Muktakashi stage in the Mahant Ghasidas Museum complex, this cultural evening brought the spirit of the rainy season to life through classical music and dance performances. Performances by classical vocalists, Bharatnatyam, and Kathak groups introduced the audience to the rich tradition of Indian classical art.
The first presentation of the first day of “Pavas Prasanga” was given by Ms. Alka Kurre, a classical vocalist. Ms. Alka Kurre, a student of Class VIII, provided the musical beginning of the program. Her presentation showcased the melodious and soulful expression of classical music.
This was followed by a Bharatanatyam performance by Mr. Horit Gaur. His performance effectively brought the rhythm, emotion, and beauty of classical dance to the program. Through the Bharatanatyam postures and expressions, the performance captivated the audience.
- 10 students presented Kathak under the guidance of Dr. Aarti Singh
A special highlight of the program was a Kathak performance by Dr. Aarti Singh and her 10 students. The presentation, including the “Shiva Panchakshar Stotra,” captured the spirit of the rainy season through Kathak’s rhythm, beat, postures, and expressions. In the group presentation, the students showcased their talent with disciplined and impressive dance compositions.
Dr. Aarti Singh is a trained Kathak artist from the Lucknow and Raigarh Gharanas and has over three decades of experience in Kathak practice and training. She is a recognized Doordarshan artist and has also been selected by the ICC. She has performed on numerous national and international platforms. She is also scheduled to perform in Tirupati next month, where she will present her rendition of “Siyaram.”
Dr. Aarti Singh has created creative presentations and choreographed dance compositions on various themes in Kathak. Among these are “Siyaram,” “First Nayika,” and “Divya Jyoti.” “Divya Jyoti” is a dance drama based on the life of Swami Vivekananda, expressing his life, thoughts, and inspiring personality through dance.
- Young talents also showed interest in classical art
The participation of young talent was also a special attraction. Nidhi Tandon, currently a tenth-grade student in Bhilai, also participated in a Kathak performance. She has been training under Guru Smt. Amrita Sanyal for the past five years. She began learning Kathak in the fifth grade and has developed her talent in this classical dance form through constant practice.
The performances of “Pavas Prasanga” showcased a beautiful blend of the experience of senior artists and the enthusiasm of young talent. The program also conveyed the message that regular training, practice, and the participation of the new generation are crucial in carrying forward the rich tradition of Indian classical arts.
- A beautiful confluence of the spirit of the rainy season and Indian classical art
“Pavas Prasanga” presented the rainy season not just as a natural transition, but as an emotion rooted in Indian music and dance traditions. Through classical vocal and dance performances, diverse emotions such as nature, devotion, joy, and compassion found expression on stage.
Art and culture lovers present on the Muktakashi stage enthusiastically enjoyed and cheered the artists’ performances. The performances effectively showcased the rich tradition, diversity, and emotional depth of Indian classical music and dance.
Organized by the Department of Culture, this program, while providing a platform for artists, was an important initiative to bring classical arts to the public and connect the new generation with these rich traditions. This cultural evening of “Pavas Prasanga” was memorable as a beautiful confluence of the sensibilities of the rainy season and Indian classical arts.