Kathak festival in Lahore revives classical tradition

The rhythmic footwork, graceful spins and intricate expressions of Kathak came alive in Lahore this week as performers, scholars and students gathered for a two-day festival dedicated to one of South Asia's oldest classical dance traditions.

Held at the Alhamra Art Centre and Maharaj Kathak Studio, the festival aimed not only to celebrate Kathak but also to address the growing challenges faced by classical dancers in Pakistan, where artists often struggle with limited funding, few performance venues and a lack of institutional support.

The event brought together established performers, emerging artists and young students eager to learn directly from experienced practitioners. Organiser Maan Sayeed and co-organiser Momina Farooq Khan said the festival was designed to create a sustainable cultural space where classical arts could remain visible and accessible.

"Dancers are struggling due to the absence of platforms and a permanent source of income," Sayeed said while speaking to Pakistan TV Digital. "This gives them space, so young dancers can meet maestros, learn, and so the art form remains part of public conversation."

The opening day on May 7, focused on discussions, workshops and artistic exchange. Senior scholars and performers including Sheema Kermani, Nighat Chaudhry, Bina Jawwad, Adnan Jahangir, Ghazala Irfan and Abuzar Madhu explored Kathak's historical roots across the subcontinent and stressed that the dance form should be viewed as a shared cultural heritage rather than divided by borders.

Panellists also discussed the urgent need for sustainable platforms that could support classical performers financially while encouraging younger generations to engage with traditional arts. Another session featuring younger practitioners including Momina Farooq Khan, Hammad Rasheed, Jessica Zakria Iqbal and Kanza Bano focused on the personal and professional challenges of pursuing careers in classical dance in Pakistan.

Workshops led by Sayeed, Rasheed and visiting artist Sujata Banerjee provided younger dancers with a rare opportunity to train under experienced mentors.

By the second day, the festival shifted into live performances and drew such a large audience that many attendees were left standing outside the packed venue. Student dancers opened the evening before performances by Hammad, Maan and Momina received warm applause from the crowd.

The programme also featured classical music performances, including vocalist Akbar Aki Khan's rendition of Shah Hussain's 'Man Atkeya Beparwah De Naal' and a flute performance by Ustad Muhammad Hanif Khan. Bina Jawwad performed alongside her ensemble Harsukhiyan and her daughters.

Sheema Kermani's performance earned a standing ovation, while veteran Kathak artist Nighat Chaudhry closed the festival. Speaking to Pakistan TV Digital, she said such events were essential for changing public perceptions of classical dance and creating stronger connections between audiences and artists.