In the world where rhythm, expression, and storytelling converge, Shovana Narayan stands as a luminary figure. She embodies the essence of the classical Indian dance form called Kathakali. In this intimate conversation, the celebrated dancer delves into the origins of her Kathak journey, the nuances of creative freedom, and the profound interplay of music within the art.
Shovana Narayan's journey into Kathak commenced at the tender age of two and a half. Recounting her early days, Shovana reveals how Kathak became more than just a dance form for her—it became her life, her breath.
The notion of channelizing "excess energy" serves as a pivotal moment in Shovana's early training. In response to Saket's query about this term, Shovana humorously narrates how her mother, faced with an energetic child, urged her to dance, to "nacho!"
The concept of excess energy extends beyond childhood exuberance; it becomes a metaphor for passion. Shovana emphasizes that passion for any art form, whether dance, writing, or journalism, propels individuals to a state of oneness, where mind, body, and spirit harmoniously unite.
Creative Freedom in Kathak: A Dance of Infinite Possibilities
The conversation shifts to the concept of creative freedom in Kathak. Shovana dispels the notion that classical art forms are rigid, pointing to the flexibility inherent in Natyashastra, the ancient Indian treatise on performing arts. She explains how Kathak encourages individual creativity, allowing dancers to explore various aspects, from rhythm patterns to emotive storytelling.
Delving into the intricacies of Abhinaya (expressional element), Shovana exemplifies how a single word or phrase can be interpreted in myriad ways. With the word "laal" (red), she vividly illustrates the richness of meaning, weaving a tapestry that encompasses emotions, nature, and personal experiences. The dancer emphasizes the importance of bhaav bataana (conveying emotions), showcasing the depth of expression possible within the art form.
Kathak on the Global Stage: Nurturing a Cultural Dialogue
Saket probes Shovana on the role of Indian arts and culture on the global stage. Shovana distinguishes between the appeal to the Indian diaspora and the local community. While diaspora connections are rooted in nostalgia, engaging the local audience becomes crucial for a lasting impact. Shovana asserts that classical culture often resonates with non-diaspora natives, while popular culture finds a significant audience within the Indian diaspora.
This perspective challenges the conventional narrative of India's cultural influence abroad, prompting a reevaluation of the true reach and impact of Indian arts on the global stage.
The Role of Music in Kathak: A Harmonious Tapestry of Expression
As the conversation concludes, Shovana reflects on the intrinsic connection between music and Kathak. Rejecting modern demarcations between classical and folk, she harks back to the ancient concept of "sangeet," an inclusive term that encompassed dance, music, and acting. Shovana beautifully articulates how every aspect of life, from the cosmic emptiness to the collision of elements, resonates with music and rhythm.
Drawing from her own life, Shovana narrates how her quest for knowledge, fueled by a love for literature, shaped her creative expressions in Kathak. Her exploration of the works of Rumi, Khalil Gibran, and Omar Khayyam led to a profound realization—parallels existed between the philosophies of these poets and the cultural heritage of Bihar. This synthesis of diverse influences exemplifies the evolution of a dancer and the boundless possibilities within the world of Kathak.
(As told to Saket Suman, at Jaipur Literature Festival 2023)
