The Dance of Silence: Dastaan-e-Kathak 2025 Redefines Expression Through Stillness
Kathak has always been a dialogue—a connection between the dancer and the audience, weaving stories through intricate footwork, graceful movements, and expressive gestures. However, at Dastaan-e-Kathak 2025, it was the moments of stillness and quiet that conveyed the most profound emotions.
A New Narrative in Kathak
This year’s festival explored The Dance of Silence, an unconventional yet deeply expressive theme for a classical form celebrated for its rhythmic storytelling. As the evening unfolded, it became clear that silence is not an absence but a presence—imbued with emotion and meaning. Every pause in movement, every moment of stillness, carried a narrative of its own, demonstrating that dance transcends motion and exists even in silence.
The event commenced with captivating Kathak performances by Ravi Yadav, Aamrapali Bhandari, Gaurav Bhatti, and Shivani Varma. Their movements embodied a quiet intensity, drawing the audience into stories of longing, joy, and introspection. At times, the music ceased entirely, yet the emotions lingered, making the silence itself resonate.
A Fusion of Dance and Visual Arts
Bharatanatyam performances by Pritam Das and Vinay Tiwari further deepened the artistic narrative. Their precise and powerful expressions added richness to the exploration of stillness. Accompanying the performances, Marie Baker Lee and the Great Banyan Art Gallery introduced visual installations that seamlessly blended dance with contemporary art, creating an immersive experience that remained with the audience long after.
The Sound of Silence in Music
Music played a pivotal role in amplifying the evening’s theme. The melancholic strains of the Esraj, played by Arshad Khan, filled the air with a haunting beauty, while Sina F. Ghafari’s nuanced percussion alternated between rhythmic intensity and gentle restraint. Although not explicitly meditative, the music induced a deep sense of stillness, drawing listeners into its serene flow.
A Multifaceted Spectacle: INYEON
A highlight of the evening was INYEON, an innovative performance that blended dance, storytelling, and fashion. Curated by Kathak exponent Shivani Varma and conceptualized by designer Urvashi Kaur, INYEON brought a fresh perspective to the festival. The experience was elevated by filmmaker Innee Singh and lighting designer Gyan Dev, who transformed the stage into a dynamic and visually striking canvas.
A Tribute to Tradition and Innovation
For Shivani Varma, this festival represents more than a performance—it is a tribute to her gurus and a testament to preserving cultural heritage. As a disciple of Pt. Birju Maharaj and Guru Shovana Narayan, she continues to honor tradition while embracing innovation. Through the Kathak Day Trust, she remains committed to inspiring and nurturing future generations in the art of Kathak.
As the final performance concluded and the last note faded into silence, a collective stillness filled the air. It was as if the audience wished to hold onto the moment, reluctant to break the spell. In that silence, the essence of Kathak lingered—timeless, profound, and deeply moving.
