Pushpak Dance Academy Opens Riyaaz Season 4 in Kolkata

Young Classical Dancers Present Kathak, Bharatanatyam, and Odissi Recitals

Key Points:

• Riyaaz Season 4 Part 1 held in Kolkata on February 8
• Young disciples present Kathak, Bharatanatyam, and Odissi
• Senior gurus lead ritual opening and felicitation ceremony

KOLKATA – Pushpak Dance Academy presented the opening segment of Riyaaz Season 4 with classical dance recitals by emerging artists in Kolkata.

The programme was held on February 8 in an intimate baithak format. The event marked the first part of the academy’s periodical classical dance series reminding audiences of India’s performing traditions.

However, the evening featured young disciples trained under established gurus from different gharanas. Kathak dancers Rifah Barkat and Tulani Kayani Skeef performed compositions marked by intricate footwork and expressive storytelling.

Meanwhile, Chandreyee Chakraborty and Ankita Das presented further Kathak recitals highlighting rhythmic precision. Their performances demonstrated the narrative depth of the form through controlled movements.

In contrast, Bharatanatyam was represented by Daliya Pal Chakraborty with structured postures and lyrical expression. Odissi dancer Rajveer Rana presented sculptural movements reflecting the classical tradition.

Moreover, live musical accompaniment supported each recital throughout the evening. Sitar, tabla, and vocal performances responded closely to the dancers’ rhythmic cues.

The evening’s musical accompaniment was equally stellar. Shri Chandrachur Bhattacharjee on sitar, Shri Aniruddha Mukherjee and Shri Ayush Guha on tabla, and Shri Dhiraj Bandyopadhyay on vocals provided impeccable support,

Before performances began, a ceremonial ritual set the evening’s tone. Senior artistes offered flowers in water as a symbolic invocation for the classical arts.

On the other hand, the ceremony included participation from the academy’s director and accompanying musicians. The ritual highlighted the spiritual foundation of Indian classical dance practices.

At the conclusion, Pushpak Dance Academy felicitated all participating dancers. The academy recognised their dedication and artistic discipline.

Meanwhile, the event reaffirmed Kolkata as a continuing centre for classical performance traditions. The series is scheduled to continue with further segments.

The event aligned with other recent city programmes including Kathak festival initiatives. Similar cultural showcases have also included Indian dance events.

Moreover, previous programmes such as ICCR festivals have reflected sustained public interest. Other showcases like thematic recitals also continue across the city.