BeyondBooks: ‘Keeping rhythm was tough, but with teacher’s guidance, I improved’

Meet Saesha Gupta, a Kathak dancer from Class XI and recently honoured at the Annual Appreciation Day. Her journey reflects passion, perseverance, and cultural pride. Inspired by the legendary Pandit Birju Maharajji and deeply guided by her dance teacher, she sees Kathak as more than performance. Through it, she learns discipline, expression, and emotional depth. For her, dance is a soulful journey of inner growth and a powerful connection to India’s classical heritage.   

Read on to know her journey.

Can you share a little about your journey in dance?

My dance journey began at age five after watching a mesmerising Kathak performance at a school function. It instantly inspired me to learn the art seriously. In the beginning, keeping rhythm and memorising steps was a challenge, but regular practice and my teacher’s guidance helped me improve. Over time, it became more than a hobby; it became a part of who I am. Performing at school events and competitions has built my confidence and discipline. Dance has taught me to express emotions without words and deepened my connection to our culture.

What dance forms do you enjoy performing the most? 

The dance form I enjoy most is Kathak. It’s a complete art form that blends rhythm, expression, grace, and storytelling. I love how it lets me tell stories through facial expressions, hand gestures, and footwork, all while staying rooted in classical music. The chakkars and intricate tatkaar are both challenging and exciting. Each performance feels unique, as even the same piece can express new emotions depending on how I feel that day.

How do you guide or support junior dancers during rehearsals?

During rehearsals, I make it a point to be encouraging and approachable for junior dancers. I guide them through the choreography step by step, and if they find a movement difficult, I break it down and practice it slowly with them. I also share helpful tips from my own experience, like maintaining rhythm or expressing with confidence. Above all, I ensure they feel supported and motivated.

Share an example of a performance where dance elevated the impact of the music?

I remember a performance where we danced to a classical thumri in raag Khamaj. The music was rich with emotion, and through Kathak, we brought its lyrics and melody to life. The abhinay, especially the expressions of longing and devotion, helped the audience connect deeply with the story. Every spin, gesture, and rhythm flowed with the music, creating a powerful impact.

How do you do dance practice while managing studies?

Our dance team usually practices three to four times a week, with more sessions during competitions or school events. Balancing dance and studies can be challenging, but time management helps. We plan our study schedules around rehearsals and stay consistent with schoolwork. Dance builds discipline and focus, which also supports our academics.

Do you ever include storytelling through dance in your pieces?

Yes, storytelling is a key element of our dance, especially in Kathak, which is known for its narrative style. We often depict stories from Indian mythology like those of Krishna, Radha, Shiva, or scenes from The Ramayan and The Mahabharata using abhinay, mudras, and expressive movements instead of words. In one recent performance, we portrayed the playful tale of young Krishna stealing butter. It was a light-hearted piece where expressions brought the mischief and joy of the moment to life for the audience.  

If your dance style were a mood, what would it be?

If my dance style, Kathak, were a mood, it would be a blend of graceful calm and emotional depth, with bursts of joyful energy. Kathak isn’t tied to one feeling; it takes you through many. In a thumri or bhajan, it feels like quiet devotion, with soft, expressive movements. But during fast tatkaar or multiple chakkars, it becomes powerful and electric. It’s soulful expression through rhythm, a mood that’s peaceful yet intense, structured yet fluid, and always rich with emotion.