Remembering Rohini Bhate, a magician of rhythm

Nrityabharati Kathak Dance Academy’s 75th year celebrations will highlight the contributions of its founder, pioneering dance guru Rohini Bhate

Nrityabharati Kathak Dance Academy, Pune, an autonomous institute established by Rohini Bhate in 1947, is preparing to launch a year-long celebration, titled ‘Amrut Mahotsav’, to mark its 75th year. The institute, now with 16 branches around the world, has planned monthly schedules of performances, panel discussions and interviews with experts in Kathak and allied dance forms, as well as its own senior members. The events will aim to bring out the salient features of founder Rohini’s distinctive Kathak style, which is known for its depth and texture as well as a thoroughly academic approach. Trained under gurus like Lachhu Maharaj of the Lucknow Gharana and Mohanrao Kalyanpurkar of the Jaipur Gharana, Rohini codified a comprehensive curriculum for Kathak that drew from both these traditions.