Two-Day Jaipur Dance Conclave Concludes with an Exciting Line-up of Performances, Workshops and Discussions
An initiative by ArtSpots, supported by the Department of Tourism (Government of Rajasthan), Rajasthan Grameen Aajeevika Vikas Parishad (RAJEEVIKA), Rural Development Department, and Rajasthan International Centre (RIC)
Jaipur, 23 November:
The first edition of the Jaipur Dance Conclave (JDC) concluded at the Rajasthan International Centre in an inspiring and thought-provoking manner. Continuing the momentum of Day 1, the second day too offered audiences a rich bouquet of dance performances, workshops and meaningful discussions.
Organised to promote awareness and appreciation of India’s rich and diverse dance traditions, the Conclave introduced audiences to the depth and variety of Indian classical and folk dance forms. Over two days, visitors witnessed top performances from across the country, interacted with senior gurus, engaged with young artists, and celebrated dance in all its glory.
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The festival was conceptualised and curated by Manjot Chawla and Kuchipudi exponent Amrita Lahiri, and hosted by ArtSpots in collaboration with the Department of Tourism (GoR); RAJEEVIKA (Rural Development Department) and RIC.
Panel Discussion: “The Way Forward – New Directions in Choreography and Dance Pedagogy”
The second day opened with a panel discussion featuring three legendary, award-winning dance gurus — Padma Shri Leela Samson, Padma Shri Madhavi Mudgal, and Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee Prerana Shrimali. The session was moderated by art historian Deepthi Sasidharan.
Leela Samson reflected on the evolution of dance, stating that every stage in a dancer’s journey brings its own challenges. She emphasised that today’s youth are extremely talented but must cultivate discipline and hard work. She stressed the importance of strong foundations—laya, rhythm, mudras, bhava and technique—and highlighted the need for structured dance education in schools.
Madhavi Mudgal spoke about how the soul of Indian classical dance lies in its musical composition. She explained the importance of understanding raga, tala and literature. She recalled the most challenging phase of her life—transitioning from Kathak to Odissi—which transformed her perception of rhythm and form.
Prerana Shrimali shared that before learning dance, an artist must understand music, sculpture and painting. Studying visual arts, she said, clarifies the language of dance. She spoke emotionally of the difficult time after her guru’s demise, which became a source of lifelong discipline and inspiration. Her commitment was evident from the Day 1 workshop, which saw 180 enthusiastic participants.
Moderator Deepthi Sasidharan steered the session sensitively, highlighting the changing needs of today’s dancers.
‘When Walls Dance’ – Special Workshop for Children
A creative workshop for children aged 7–12, titled “When Walls Dance,” was conducted by Bharatanatyam dancer, choreographer and voice artist Prachi Saathi.
The workshop introduced children to new modes of storytelling through dance, music, acting and technology.
Prachi also showcased her production “When Walls Dance,” which blends Warli art, animation, Bharatanatyam and storytelling to narrate the tale of a young girl and her Champa tree—delivering a strong message on nature conservation. She shared her experience working with traditional Warli artists, and highlighted how arts and ecology are deeply interconnected.
Rajasthan’s Folk Music Tradition – With Vinod Joshi
A deep and insightful discussion took place between Rajasthan folk culture expert Vinod Joshi and Kathak exponent Gauri Diwakar, titled “Rajasthan’s Folk Music Tradition.”
They explored the stories, nuances and heritage behind Rajasthan’s performing arts, with special focus on Kalbelia, the dance and music tradition of snake-charmers’ communities. Kalbelia dancers also presented a live performance during the session.
Vinod Joshi, who has documented Rajasthan’s indigenous traditions for over two decades, shared why Rajasthan remains one of the world’s richest cultural regions. Gauri Diwakar discussed the contemporary relevance and inspiration these traditions offer to artists.
‘Nritya Tarang’ – Presentation by Jaipur Kathak Kendra
Jaipur Kathak Kendra presented a mesmerising production titled “Nritya Tarang,” featuring Shuddha Kathak.
The performance opened with a soulful Shiva Stotram, followed by compositions in Dhamar tala showcasing the power and structure of the Jaipur gharana, and concluded with dynamic Teentaal.
The dancers impressed audiences with precise footwork, speed, expressions and the characteristic depth of the Jaipur style.
‘Manthan’ – Kawad Katha & Mohiniyattam Presentation
In the evening, Mohiniyattam dancer Divyaa Warrier and director Akshay Gandhi presented “Manthan,” combining Rajasthan’s Kawad Katha storytelling tradition with Kerala’s classical Mohiniyattam.
The piece explored the parallel journeys of a dancer and a storyteller as they search for truth through their respective art forms—drawing inspiration from the mythical Samudra Manthan. The result was an evocative and immersive artistic experience.
Discussion & Performance Based on the Book “Wild Women”
A unique session celebrated poet and author Arundhathi Subramaniam’s acclaimed poetry collection “Wild Women.” The session blended poetry, music and dance.
Arundhathi explained how the book brings together the powerful voices of women mystics across the Indian subcontinent—Buddhist nuns, Bhakti and Sufi poets, Tantric practitioners and Vedantins.
Focusing on Rupa Bhawani, Mirabai and Janabai, she described how each sought truth differently—through tantra, devotion, or daily labour—but shared a common search for inner spiritual power and freedom.
Singer Sudha Raghuraman and dancer Dakshina Vaidyanathan brought these poems alive through a stunning musical and dance performance. Rupa Bhawani’s Shiva devotion, Janabai’s loving surrender to Vitthala, and the mystic journey of the feminine spirit were beautifully depicted. The session was moderated by Akhila Krishnamurthy
Odissi Presentation ‘Vistaar’ – Grand Finale
The Conclave concluded with the Odissi production “Vistaar,” performed by disciples of Padma Shri Madhavi Mudgal.
The group performance presented nritta (pure dance) and abhinaya (expressive dance) with a contemporary sensibility while maintaining the classical grammar of Odissi.
The presentation offered audiences a balanced, nuanced and aesthetically rich experience, marking a graceful end to the two-day festival.