Two worlds united

SD Sharma

The Indian classical dance traditions are a progressively living phenomenon, characterised by certain innovative improvisations on a disciplined basis, from time to time. “Sometimes the addition of a new trend, say for instance, a Sufiana thought or theme when incorporated or added to an established tradition, like that of Kathak classical dance finds a mass appeal to the extent that the new form emerges as ‘Sufi Kathak’,” observed the globetrotting Kathak dance doyenne, Manjuri Chaturvedi.

A post-graduate in Environmental Sciences, Manjari found solace in performing and promoting classical Kathak dance especially the ‘Sufi Kathak’.

Manjuri, who was in Chandigarh recently, shares her experiences and more.

Do you feel that Sufi Kathak dance has acquired acceptance as a classical dance form?

I had a submission that any dance tradition should never be taken as a closed door institution; it should be allowed to grow, taking along the contemporary trends. The form that emerges will strengthen the life of the original tradition as well. It is too early to say about the acceptance since dances like Bharatnatyam have taken many centuries. But, if you go by a record of my fully sold out 300 concerts in 25 countries, I feel there is a substance in my effort and conviction. However, history will reveal its establishment after I retire from dance and life, she adds with a laugh.

What inspired you to undertake the venture that utterances of sufi saints could be composed with religious deities?

‘Jab hukam hua Elahi’, I worked on it as it is just an ibadat’. After The Courtesan – an Enigma, A Darbari Kathak, The Buddha is my next offering.

Your compositions are limited to Baba Bulleh Shah only?

No, there is a lot in my repertoire but Bulleh Shah, Shah Hussain and Baba Farid are heard more in this region.