Student Achiever: ‘Kathak is like my Lord Krishna’

She truly epitomises an apsara walking straight out of Inderlok when she dons the avatar of a Kathak dancer. Meet Saisha Gupta who is studying in class X at Apeejay School, Noida. In a candid interview, she talks about her journey into the realm of Kathak.  

Read edited excerpts here.  

Tell us about your recent achievements. 

I have represented our school in the field of classical dance – kathak. Recently in the past month, I have won second position in the Kala Sangam held at Apeejay School, Noida and won first prize at The Khaitan School, Noida. I have also participated in various competitions held all over India. I secured second position in Haridwar Nritya Utsav and first position in the Sambhagya Shastriya Sangeet Pratyogita held in Saharanpur. I also participated in the nationals held in Agra and showcased my talent at the International UP Trade Fair as well.

Share your training regime.

I have been training under Vaishnavi Nrityalaya since I was six years old, focusing on the fundamentals of Kathak including footwork (tatkar), hand gestures (mudras), rhythmic patterns (laya), and the traditional repertoire of stories from Hindu mythology.

How did you develop an interest in Kathak? 

I was drawn to Kathak’s rich storytelling ability, where every movement and expression conveys a narrative, allowing me to connect deeply with the audience and explore a wide range of emotions through dance. Pandit Birju Mahrajji has truly been an inspiration to me. He is a renowned Kathak dancer of Lucknow gharana.

Would you like to take up Kathak professionally? 

I aspire to continue learning and evolving as a dancer, sharing the beauty of Kathak with a wider audience, and potentially contribute to the development of new choreography that honours the classical tradition while exploring contemporary themes.

How did Apeejay School support your journey?

Apeejay School has provided immense support throughout my journey. I am thankful to my dance teacher. She has left no stone unturned to help at all times during every interschool competition. I would also like to extend my gratitude to the school faculty for adjusting the time for exams whenever it clashed with my performances outside the school premises.

How has Kathak changed your life personally?  

From fostering physical fitness and mental acuity to promoting emotional well-being and cultural appreciation, the journey of learning Kathak has been an enchanting experience for me that enriches my life in multifaceted ways. It provides immense peace and happiness.