About the Show About the Show
A recital of Kathak dance to showcase the importance of live accompaniment for Kathak dancers. Parampara is such a vital concept in Indian Classical artforms as the action of 'passing on ' is what has kept these historic artforms alive to this day. Jaipur Gharana is the oldest style of Kathak and being able to present the traditional compositions is an honour in itself. This performance hopes to stay true to its name and display "Traditions Continued." Many of the compositions being presented in the show are those passed down generation to generation. Traditions Continued, is the act of passing down the historic compositions as well as integrating new compositions to adapt to the creativity of each generation of Gurus/Teachers and emerging Kathak practioners.
A Live Kathak Recital Featuring Youth Dancers: Ameeya Bandoo, Divya Gossai, Salisha Purushuttam, Samarpita Biswas, Ojasvi Deorukhkar, Umagauri Kanade, Vanisha Kumar, Charmy Brahmbhatt, Evani Sasi Vandana, Soumika Sarkar, Shailaja Shah, and Mahiya Habib. Youth Musicians: Vedant Panwar, Neil Budnarain, Vishnu Kandanchatha and Renuka Boodoosingh, Conducted, Choreographed, Conceptualized and Executed by Vaishnavi Panwar.
Angikam & Dev Dev Mahadev Shankar - An Invocation
Taal Chautaal - Vilambit
Taal Chautaal - Madhya
Murli Baja - Raag Patdeep
Solo by Guruji Hemant Panwar
Sargam - Culmination
VAISHNAVI PANWAR
Dancer, Choreographer
Vaishnavi Panwar is trained in the Kathak art form under the able tutelage and guidance of her very talented parents, Shri Hemant & Shrimati Vaishali Panwar who are a renowned dancing duo of the dynamic art of form of Kathak of Jaipur Gharana She has been learning Classical Indian Music from a tender age from her father, Shri Hemant Panwar, with whose guidance she has performed in many events in and around the GTA Vaishnavi’s inclination with music has led her to conduct initiatives with many other youth artists in the community. She has graduated from Wexford Collegiate School for the Arts. She is currently attending the University of Toronto to get her degree in Arts and Media Management and Theatre and Performance Hailing from an artistic family background, Vaishnavi is the 11th generation of Kathak Dancers of Jaipur Gharana in her family She has performed solos at the New York Kathak Festival, Markham Civic Centre for Hindu Heritage Month, Vedic Cultural Centre, the University Theatre, Calgary, etc. She has participated in numerous group choreographies under Panwar Music and Dance at the Mosaic Festival, Aurora Multicultural festival, Taste of Asia, Festival of South Asia, and Toronto International Dance Festival, to name a few, being part of almost every stage production of the company.
Vaishnavi also teaches children enrolled under Panwar Academy and numerous community organizations in the GTA. Apart from many programs in Canada, she has also performed in India, Germany, Switzerland and USA. She aspires to be a leader and inspiration to the younger generation in North America to be inclined towards their culture. Vaishnavi actively collaborates with many Youth Artists who practice a variety classical art forms both nationally and internationally while experimenting and discovering new types of expression within the art forms she practices.
Through this project Vaishnavi has tried to provide the opportunity of understanding and performing with live musicians. This tradition of performing live is an extremely important part of any Kathak dancers professional development. Vaishnavi aspires to continue to conceptualize and execute such projects and thanks her Gurus for being the reason behind her passion, motivation and purpose.
OUR TEAM
SOUMIKA SARKAR
Dancer
Soumika Sarkar embarked on her dance journey at the age of six, under the nurturing guidance of Guru Rakhi Sinha in Bharatanatyam Through the years she has explored several dance forms including Manipuri, Kathakali, Rabindra Nritya etc, and eventually began studying Kathak in 2012 under the esteemed Guru Vedanti Bhagwat of Jaipur Gharana and immediately fell in love with the art form Through the years, she has been blessed by many Gurus, her dedication has kept her connected to Kathak Today, she continues to hone her skills under the expert and rigorous mentorship of Guru Hemant Panwar and Guru Mahua Shankar, captivating audiences with her deep understanding of tradition and innovation Throughout the years, Soumika has been very active on stage She has participated in several corporate shows and won numerous competitions Since moving to Toronto, she has performed in various festivals and engaged actively with the community Soumika has also trained in Hindustani classical music and harmonium for five years under the tutelage of the late Guru Purna Chandra Chakraborty, expanding and deepening her understanding of rhythm and taal vidya.
SHAILAJA SHAH
Dancer
Shailaja Shah, daughter of Mukti and Sameer Shah, is a dedicated Kathak dancer who began her journey in Indian Classical dance at the age of ten Driven by a deep passion for the art form, she pursued her Visharad in Kathak under the guidance of Guru Jigna Mehta, later completing her Alankar in Kathak under Smt. Dyuti Joshi. Eager to keep learning and evolving, Shailaja has continuously embraced innovations in Kathak, a commitment supported by the unwavering encouragement of her family and friends. She has also participated in numerous workshops led by renowned artists, including Lt. Pt. Birju Maharaj ji, Vidushi Durga Arya ji, Smt. Saswati Didi, Dr. Puru Dadeech ji, among others broadening her knowledge and experience. In 2019, Shailaja moved to Canada as an international student to pursue postgraduate studies in human resource management and business administration at York University. This year, after her marriage, she resumed her Kathak practice with renewed dedication, thanks to the support and encouragement of her husband, Yash Shah, who has been instrumental in helping her reconnect with her passion for dance
OUR TEAM
AMEEYA BANDOO
Dancer
Ameeya is a dedicated Kathak dancer and musician with over 10 years of experience in the dance form, studying under the guidance of renowned Gurus Shri Hemant and Smt Vaishali Panwar at Panwar Music and Dance Academy In addition to her dance training, she has been learning to sing and play the harmonium for the past 8 years Ameeya has performed at various festivals, events, and community programs across the GTA, contributing to cultural celebrations and connecting with diverse audiences Her performances include roles in major productions such as Krishna, at the Living Arts Centre, and the Ram Leela production in Hamilton and Ottawa Ameeya is also deeply involved in her community, teaching music to young children and mentoring aspiring dancers and musicians
Currently in her third year of Business Management studies at Toronto Metropolitan University, Ameeya continues to blend her artistic passions with her academic pursuits, striving to bring her creativity and leadership to both the arts and her professional endeavors.
SAMARPITA BISWAS
Dancer
Samarpita Biswas, born and raised in Kolkata, India, began her journey in the arts at the age of four, training in the Benaras gharana of Kathak under Guru Sandeep Banerjee During her childhood, she also trained in Rabindra Nritya, further enriching her foundation in classical dance. Over the past eight years, she has been studying Kathak in the Lucknow gharana under Guru Smitha Srinivasan. Her artistic journey expanded further as she began pursuing Odissi under Guru Barnalee Sarkar four years ago. Most recently, she has delved into the Jaipur gharana of Kathak, training and performing under the guidance of Gurus Hemant and Vaishali Panwar.
A dedicated IT professional by career, Samarpita carries dance in her heart. Her lifelong passion for the performing arts reflects her commitment to preserving and celebrating India’s classical traditions while continually exploring new horizons in movement and rhythm.
OUR TEAM
EVANI SASI VANDANA
Dancer
Evani Sasi Vadana began her dance journey at the Uday Shankar India Culture Centre in Kolkata, where she trained in Kathak, Odissi, and the legacy styles of Maestro Uday Shankar Expanding her repertoire, she studied Ballet, Jazz, Tap, and Ballroom at the Academy of Modern Dance in Chennai and The School of Classical Ballet and Western Dance in Mumbai In 2012, she returned to her classical roots, earning an Advanced Diploma in Kathak and a Diploma in Nrityashastra from the prestigious Nalanda Dance Research Centre in Mumbai Beyond dance, Sasi has worked as a camera technician in Indian films and co-founded The Jazz Square, an initiative providing dance opportunities for underprivileged children Now based in Toronto, she is a passionate student of Kathak, honing her skills at the Panwar Music and Dance Academy Sasi’s artistic journey reflects her dedication to preserving tradition while embracing diverse forms of creative expression
MAHIYA HABIB
Dancer
Mahiya, a Dhaka-born Toronto native, began her journey in the arts at the age of three under the guidance of Aruna Haider at Shukanya Nrittangan Rooted in Kathak and traditional Bangladeshi dance, she developed a strong foundation that has since expanded into a diverse repertoire encompassing various dance genres.
For Mahiya, dance has always been more than an art form it is a language of expression, connection, and joy. From her earliest memories, where every step became a rhythm, to her present-day performances, she sees dance as a universal medium that bridges cultures and brings people together.
Her passion for movement continues to evolve as she embraces the fluidity of styles and the beauty of rhythm, honoring her roots while exploring new creative horizons. Mahiya’s belief in dance as the mother of all arts inspires her dedication to sharing its transformative power with others.
OUR TEAM
SALISHA PURUSHUTTAM
Dancer
Salisha has studied Kathak for over 25 years Her studies began under the tutelage of the late Shreemati Deveikha Chetram in the Lucknow Gharana and has been receiving advanced kathak training in the Jaipur Gharana under the guidance of Shri Hemant Panwar and Shreemati Vaishali Panwar Panwar for nearly two decades Salisha is an active company dancer, musician and instructor with Panwar Music and Dance Academy and Panwar Music and Dance Productions She has graced many stages across Canada, the U S , Guyana and India and performed in large-scale productions such as Shakuntala, Krishna: A Dance Drama, and Ram Leela Salisha has also studied Indian classical music and sitar for over 20 years, initiated under the guidance of the late Shri Onkar Singh Salisha has since furthered her sitar training under the tutelage of world-renowned sitar maestro Pandit Partha Bose in the Maihar Gharana Over the last two decades Salisha has had the honour of accompanying her Gurus, fellow dancers and musicians on sitar, harmonium, and padhanth (bhol recitation). Salisha continues to learn and grow as an artist, sharing her knowledge and passion with others.
DIVYA GOSSAI
Dancer
Divya Gossai is a senior student of Shri Hemant and Smt Vaishali Panwar at Panwar Music and Dance, with over 30 years devoted to her passion for the arts A master of Kathak and Bharatanatyam, she has spent 18 years with Panwar Music and Dance, gracing stages across Canada, India, Guyana, Germany, and Switzerland, sharing her artistry with diverse audiences.
Divya has played a pivotal role in several acclaimed productions, including Shakuntala, Krishna: A Dance Drama, and Ram Leela, showcasing her exceptional talent and dedication to preserving Indian culture. Beyond dance, she is a skilled vocalist and sitarist, further enriching her creative repertoire.
Her commitment to the performing arts extends beyond the stage, as she shares her talents to uplift and inspire her community. Divya’s artistry is a celebration of tradition and innovation, reflecting her deep connection to her cultural heritage and love for the arts.
OUR TEAM
CHARMY BRAHMBHATT
Dancer
Charmy Brahmbhatt is a passionate Kathak dancer and Bollywood performer who seamlessly blends her academic and artistic pursuits Currently pursuing a Master’s in Counselling Psychology after completing her undergraduate studies in Psychological and Health Sciences, Charmy finds balance and inspiration in her love for dance Having trained in Kathak dance, completing her exams, she showcases her dedication to mastering this intricate classical art form For Charmy, Kathak is more than a dance it is a profound connection to her cultural heritage and a foundation for exploring all forms of movement
In addition to her Kathak journey, Charmy shines as a Bollywood performer, regularly captivating audiences with her vibrant energy and expressive artistry at community events Her passion for dance serves as both a creative outlet and a means of sharing her cultural roots, making her a true ambassador for the performing arts
Dancer VANISHA
Vanisha is a passionate dancer, choreographer, and educator who leads Vanisha’s Desi Dance and Drama, a dynamic cultural hub in Toronto With formal training in Kathak and Bharatanatyam, she brings a unique flair to her teachings by blending classical techniques with modern and vibrant dance styles. Vanisha specializes in Semi-Classical, South Kuthu, Bollywood, Southern Folk, and Garba dance forms. Her approach emphasizes not only technical precision but also the cultural richness and storytelling elements intrinsic to Indian dance. Vanisha is dedicated to fostering a love for dance while helping the community build confidence, creativity, and connection through movement. She has choreographed for numerous community events and celebrations, earning recognition for her engaging and inclusive style. Through her work, Vanisha continues to celebrate and preserve the beauty of Indian dance traditions while embracing contemporary expressions
OUR TEAM
Dancer OJASVI DEORUKHKAR
Ojasvi Deorukhkar is a dedicated Kathak dancer with a deep passion for exploring diverse dance and art forms Trained in the Banaras gharana of Kathak, Ojasvi holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Kathak, earned under the esteemed guidance of Guru Smt Smriti Talpade Her journey was profoundly shaped by the foundational teachings of the late Guru Smt Asha Jogalekar, to whom she remains deeply grateful
Ojasvi has performed at prestigious cultural festivals across India, showcasing her artistry on renowned stages Her talent has earned her accolades at both national and international Kathak competitions, solidifying her reputation as a skilled and versatile performer
Now based in Toronto, Ojasvi continues to collaborate with talented artists, contributing to the vibrant local arts scene Her dedication to Kathak and the arts reflects her commitment to preserving tradition while embracing creative evolution
UMAGAURI KANADE
Dancer
Umagauri Kanade is a Toronto-based Kathak dancer who has trained under Guru Smt Ranjana Phadke at Kathakalaya in Mumbai She has completed Kathak Nritya Visharad from Akhil Bharatiya Gandharva Mahavidyalaya with first-class honors and holds a diploma in Kathak from Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth, Pune, with first-class distinction. She is currently training with Tanveer Alam Ji in Toronto. She has performed both solo and ensemble works at various dance festivals in India and Canada. Among her notable performances, she had the privilege of performing with Guru Pt. Rajendra Gangani Ji at Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam, and with SNA awardee Guru Smt. Rajashree Shirke Ji at the Sirpur Mahotsav, Dhauli-Kalinga Mahotsav, National Festival of Creative Arts, Kalavardhini's Srimad Ramayanam festival at the Music Academy in Chennai, and the Bharat Rang Mahotsav, organized by the National School of Drama. She has also performed alongside Sonia Gupta-Rao Ji and Guru Ranjana Phadke Ji at various prestigious venues in India, including the Surya Festival, Elephanta Festival in Mumbai, Swaralaya Festival in Palakkad, and Pune Festival, to name a few Recently, she was part of Sampradaya Dance Creations' production Salaam Rahmaan and presented a classical composition, Tirvat, at the Avishkar Dance Festival in Toronto
OUR TEAM
VEDANT PANWAR
Musician
Vedant Panwar is a child prodigy who has been exposed to music and dance from a very early age as his parents Shri Hemant and Smt Vaishali Panwar are renowned artists. Vedant has played the role of child Krishna in the famous dance production that has been staged at many prestigious venues in India, Germany and of course, Canada. He often sings in community events across Toronto. Vedant is the winner of the Junior category of the Panorama Indian Idol competition 2020. Vedant was called on stage by the famous singer Ali Sethi to sing in front of a large audience at the TD Mosaic Festival At the inauguration of the “Treasures of a Desert Kingdom: the Royal Arts of Jodhpur” exhibition at the Royal Ontario Museum, Vedant sang in the presence of the King of Jodhpur - Maharaja Gaj Singh He has accompanied Kathak performances with his singing numerous times and is known to mesmerize audiences with his talents in light of his young age
RENUKA BOODOOSINGH
Musician
Ren is a seasoned violinist with 17 years of experience, with her foundation rooted in Indian classical music Over the years, she has expanded her repertoire, branching out into various genres, showcasing versatility and passion for the art She has performed alongside many renowned Indian artistes such as Anup Jalota, and Caribbean artists, and hopes to continue sharing her soulful sound through the violin
OUR TEAM
NEIL BUDNARAIN
Musician
Neil Budnarain has been training in Tabla for over the past 10 years from his Guruji Shri Ajinkya Joshi, who is a disciple of TaalYogi Pt Suresh Talwalkar Since 2010, he has travelled to Pune, India multiple times for intensive training in Tabla with his Guruji In Toronto, he plays tabla for Vishnu Mandir and is a regular performer with Panwar Music and Dance He plays with many musicians in and around the GTA and continuously performs in a wide variety of events Neil is known among the young musician community as one of the best Tabla players! In addition to his passion for music, he also holds a Bachelors of Computer Science and a Masters of Mathematics from the University of Waterloo
VISHNU KANDANCHATHA
Musician
Vishnu Kandanchatha is a rising emerging Carnatic musician based in Toronto, Canada He expresses great gratitude to his musical gurus who have continuously guided him through his musical journey His initial Flute Guru Sir Kudamaloor Janardhanan, Now currently, Sri JB Sruthi Sagar his current Flute Guru, his Vocal Guru Sri Arun Gopinath, and his Mridangam Guru Sri Rathiruban Paramsothy Vishnu has had the privilege of competing and performing in many well known organizations such as Cleveland Thygaraja Aradhana, and Kerala Kalolsavam 2021 receiving first-prize awards and recognition in flute and mridangam Vishnu wishes to continue his musical journey with the blessings of all teachers and music enthusiasts
Parampara - Traditions
Guru Shri Hemant Panwar and Smt. Vaishali Panwar are the backbone of this entire project.
All participants have benefitted from their guidance as they have years of experience for both teaching and performing.
They have been mentors to us throughout the entirety of the project and have spearheaded our understanding of the creation of a Traditional Live Kathak recital.
We would like to acknowledge their hardwork to make sure this project turned out just as it was conceptualized.
We are eternally grateful for the knowledge we have received and compositions that have been passed onto us.
We would like to thank them for their huge contributions for this project, our professional growth and newfound knowledge.
GRATITUDE
The Kathak community thrives on the respect they give their Gurus because we recognize the importance of passing on knowledge selflessly - that is the definition of a Guru. Indian Classical art forms are known for the Guru-Shishya Parampara, a tradition of how to pass on knowledge. To uphold tradition and to create an atmosphere where culture flourishes, one must always pay homage to their teacher, who gave them the purpose they survive on today.
Parampara - Traditions Continued
A NOTE BY VAISHNAVI PANWAR
"Jaipur Gharana has been an integral part of the preservation of Indian culture"
Live Performance
Live Kathak recitals have been a dream for me ever since I performed my solo for the first time at the age of 16 with live musicians. Ever since then, I long for the adrenaline, power and freedom I feel during such a performance. It's such an integral part of every Kathak dancer's journey as it builds a greater understanding of how to maintain tempo, focus on your movements while maintaining grace and creating a persona on a stage that is confident and unique to you.
Traditions Continued
This project has been my utmost honour as I feel I'm doing my part to preserve and promote Jaipur Gharana and Kathak itself within our community. To be given this chance again to do this project again has been a beautiful experience. Not only has this project been a learning vessel for me but has given me the opportunity to learn traditional compositions and explore my own creativity For this reason I thank all project participants for their hard work, dedication and ongoing commitment to this project.
"I'm
thankful to my Gurus for providing me with my purpose, direction and passion."
T H A N K Y O U
Thank you to ArtReach and the Toronto Arts Council for supporting this project
Thank you to the Malvern Family Resource Centre
Thank you to all project participants for being a part of this
Thank you Nimesh Sharma, Arjun Ghosh, Damien Basant and Jaedon Basant for all your help
Thank you Lavanya Bedi for being the most amazing emcee
Most of all, thank you Maa and Papaji for making me who I am today, helping me put this project together and supporting me throughout
Huge shoutout to all my friends, family, professors, teachers, well-wishers and supporters for making it today!
