Jalandhar August 5 (Jaswinder Singh Azad)- Apeejay College of Fine Arts, Jalandhar, in collaboration with SPIC MACAY and the PG Department of Indian Classical Dance, hosted a spectacular Kathak performance by internationally acclaimed dancer Shri Rajendra Gangani. Belonging to the Jaipur Gharana, Shri Gangani learnt the intricacies of Kathak under the guidance of his father, Shri Kundan Lal Gangani. He has presented his art in several countries including the USA, Africa, and England.
Dr. Neerja Dhingra, while warmly welcoming Dr. Sucharita Sharma, Director of Apeejay Education, expressed that her dignified presence is always inspiring and encouraging. She also extended a warm welcome to Shri Rajendra Gangani and said that it is a matter of great pride for the college students to witness and learn from such a talented and dynamic personality, who has carved a unique identity in the field of Kathak and has been honoured with the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.
Sharing his experience of visiting the college, Pandit Rajendra Gangani of the Jaipur Gharana said that just as Apeejay College alumni are earning recognition in the fields of music and dance across the country, the college itself has now established its identity as a renowned gharana of music. He expressed confidence that the way the college is promoting the rich legacy of music and dance, the younger generation will remain connected to their heritage and contribute to its growth.
The event began with a soulful performance of the Panchakshari mantra
Speaking about Kathak, Shri Gangani mentioned that the beautiful use of literary words forms the foundation of its aesthetic appeal. The event began with a soulful performance of the Panchakshari mantra “Om Namah Shivaya,” composed by Adi Shankaracharya. Describing Teen Taal as the queen of all taals, he said that not landing on the sam (first beat) during improvisation shows that music is beyond human control. He also presented an emotionally stirring Ganesh bhajan, “Naachat Bhajan,” in the Jaipur style, leaving the audience spellbound.
Shri Rajendra Gangani was accompanied by renowned international tabla artist Fateh Lal Gangani (also from the Jaipur Gharana), Shri Vinod Gangani on vocals, and internationally famous sarangi player Nafees Khan.
Dr. Dhingra appreciated the efforts of programme coordinators Dr. Amita Mishra and Dr. Micky Verma for the successful organisation of the workshop and encouraged them to continue organising such grand events in future by inviting more accomplished artists.