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Journalism of Courage
In the present era, with its technology-driven platforms and obsession for instant fame, aspiring dancers often miss out on the profound exploration of the intricacies, depth, and spiritual essence of Indian classical dance that fosters long-term evolution and success, says Dr Parul Purohit Vats.
As a Kathak exponent, Dr Parul Purohit Vats possesses a deep understanding of the rich heritage and artistic traditions associated with Indian classical dances. In fact, with her precise footwork, graceful pirouettes, and mesmerising leaps, she captivates the audience with her soulful abhinaya and radiant presence. Each expression and movement she portrays is executed with skill and elegance. In her current role as the Dean of the School of Performing Arts at the World University of Design, Sonipat, Dr Parul wants to build an interdisciplinary approach among the fields of arts, architecture, and design with the ultimate goal of making performing arts a viable and attractive career choice for young individuals.
Being a registered member of the International Dance Council, Paris, Dr Parul presented a lecture and performed a self-choreographed dance-drama piece at the 51st World Congress on Dance Research in Athens, Greece in 2018. She has also served as the principal of Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra in New Delhi. Since 2011, she has been conducting dance and drama workshops at the British Council, New Delhi.
In an interaction with indianexpress.com, the artiste, who has over 20 years of experience, emphasises the holistic development that comes with learning Kathak, including enhanced creativity, discipline, physical fitness, and emotional expression. Additionally, the 44-year-old sheds light on diverse career paths in Indian classical arts beyond performance, such as teaching, choreography, arts management, cultural entrepreneurship, and fusion collaborations.
Excerpts
How do you see the young generation’s interest and enthusiasm for the classical dance form?
The young generation’s remarkable interest and enthusiasm for classical dance reflects a dynamic and evolving cultural landscape, despite the influences of modernity and globalisation. This resurgence can be attributed to dedicated practitioners, quality training institutions, and a growing recognition of the intrinsic value and beauty of this art form. Their curiosity and eagerness signify a quest to understand their roots and preserve their cultural legacy.
Moreover, they go beyond traditional boundaries, blending contemporary elements and experimenting with innovative interpretations. However, their lack of knowledge about their future career prospects in performing arts holds them back from fully embracing it. Nonetheless, their passion ensures a promising future for classical dance, contributing to its relevance, evolution, and artistic tapestry in society.
What are some of the challenges that you faced vis-à-vis the current generation?
I hold the belief that Indian classical dance practitioners from my generation and the generations before that also possessed a special advantage as they were instilled with the virtues of patience and underwent rigorous riyaaz (practice) before stepping into the limelight. In the present era, with its obsession for instant fame and technology-driven platforms, aspiring dancers often miss out on the profound exploration of the intricacies, depth, and spiritual essence of Indian classical dance that fosters long-term evolution and success. The opportunity to delve deeply into the nuances of this art form is invaluable, as it enables dancers to develop a strong foundation and cultivate their artistic abilities, leading to a more meaningful and fulfilling journey in the realm of Indian classical dance.
Why should parents enrol their children in classical dance classes?
Parents should consider teaching their children Indian classical dance due to its multifaceted benefits that encompass cognitive, emotional, physical, and cultural aspects. By immersing children in the intricacies of this ancient art form, they can develop heightened cognitive abilities such as improved memory, concentration, and pattern recognition. Furthermore, Indian classical dance encourages emotional expression, enabling children to explore and communicate their feelings in a structured and artistic manner. Physically, the rigorous training and precise movements involved in Indian classical dance contribute to flexibility, coordination, and overall fitness. Lastly, by embracing and transmitting this traditional art form, parents provide their children with a deep connection to their cultural heritage, fostering a sense of pride, identity, and appreciation for the rich tapestry of Indian culture.
There is always this question of which is a better dance form. What is your take?
As an Indian classical dancer and educator, I believe that comparing dance forms is an oversimplification of their diverse and intricate nature. Each has its unique essence, cultural context, and artistic expressions that deserve appreciation in their own right. Indian classical dance is deeply rooted in centuries-old traditions, spirituality, and storytelling, while western dance encompasses a wide range of styles and influences. Rather than debating which is superior, I believe in celebrating the beauty and richness of both dance forms, recognising the potential for cross-cultural exchange, and fostering a mutual understanding and respect for the diverse artistic traditions that exist in our world.
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