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The Rasika
From Mere Spectators to Connoisseurs of Classical Dance
Speaker and Artists
What do you really see when a classical dancer takes the stage?
Is it the beauty of the movement, the rhythm of the music, or the story unfolding before your eyes? This evening invites you to look closer, to discover the richness within Indian classical dance; the traditional repertoire, the interplay of melody and rhythm, the subtle gestures that carry meaning, and the role of texts that shape interpretation.
Guided by Dr. Sahana Das, a seasoned choreographer and researcher, the session opens up the world of classical dance in ways that both newcomers and longtime rasikas can enjoy. Adding depth and texture are dancers Kirti Ramgopal and Meghna Das, who bring their own artistry in Bharatanatyam and Odissi to the conversation.
Through reflection and performance, the evening gently unravels the intricacies of these timeless traditions, reminding us that dance is not just to be seen: it is to be experienced, understood, and felt!
Speaker and Artists
Sahana Das
Beginning Odissi at age four under Guru Mayadhar Rout, Dr Sahana Das has over 25 years of training and global performances. A graded Doordarshan artiste, she holds a doctorate in Indian aesthetic theory and teaches Perspectives in Indian Art at Mount Carmel College. As choreographer, researcher, and educator, she spreads awareness of Indian art through productions, workshops, and seminars. Her passion lies in preserving and sharing the richness of Indian classical dance traditions.
Kirti Ramgopal
Trained under Guru Padmini Ramachandran, with guidance from Smt. Priyadarshini Govind, Sri A. Lakshman, and Smt. Bragha Bessell, Kirti is an acclaimed Bharatanatyam artiste. An empanelled ICCR performer and graded Doordarshan artiste, she has toured across India and internationally, winning recognition from critics and audiences alike. A recipient of multiple awards, including the Singar Mani title, she has performed at prestigious venues worldwide. Kirti is committed to preserving and propagating the pristine beauty of Bharatanatyam.
Meghna Das
Meghna Das began Odissi under her mother, Dr. Sahana Das, and later trained at Nrityagram and under Guru Bijayini Satpathy. A graded Doordarshan artiste and ICCR performer, she has danced at iconic festivals including Konark and Mukteshwar. As soloist and choreographer, her productions—Anamika, Ayam, Samam, Neelachal—reflect her evolving artistry. Meghna also teaches Odissi in India and abroad, developing innovative pedagogy. Beyond dance, she works as a communications strategist, writer, and traveller, bringing Odissi worldwide.
