Kathak Kendra is an Indian dance academy that carries on the heritage of Indian music, drama and dance. Students of all age groups get enrolment here to cherish and develop the fine art of performance through dance and drama.
Kathak Kendra is reckoned as one of the leading training institutions in Kathak dance in the country. The Sangeet Natak Akademi established this Kendra in 1964 and the Kendra started to offer priceless courses in Kathak dance as well as in other allied arts. The exact location of Kathak Kendra is at Bahawalpur House, Bhagwan Dass Road in New Delhi. The institution, dedicated to the teaching and promotion of Kathak as a dance form, was once originally an elementary unit of the prestigious Sangeet Natak Academi, however now it is one of the leading dance-teaching institutions in India. In addition to Kathak Dance, Kathak Kendra also offers courses in related arts such as Hindustani vocal music and Pakhawaj. The Kendra has its staff teachers of eminence in various disciplines. Kathak Kendra has a Production Unit that strives to enrich the repertoire and technique of Kathak through several experimental works.
The students of Kathak Kendra are taught not only to perform according to their teacher`s training but also to contribute to the cultural heritage of mankind. The Kathak Kendra authorities believe that traditions can be preserved and also can be created afresh. It is therefore the aim of this Kathak Kendra to preserve the traditions of Indian classical dance by offering the dancing maestros an institution to build up their dreams; thus supporting in the preservation as well as creation of tradition.
Kathak Kendra, is also considered as a prominent landmark in its region of New Delhi.
The main objective of the Kathak Kendra is to coach skilful dancers committed to pursuing the dancing art as a profession. The academic session starts from 1st July and extends to 15th May. The courses offered by Kathak Kendra includes, a (part-time) four years foundation course in dance for the age group 7-16, 3 year Diploma (Honours) course for age group 16-24 years, a (part-time) 3 years diploma (pass) course for the age group 13-22 years. A two years post-diploma course for the age group 19-26 years and a 2 years preparatory course before admission to Diploma (Honours) course to take appropriate basic training. The Production Unit of the Kathak Kendra is a renowned repertory of Kathak Dance and music. The unit has greatly contributed towards the expansion of the Kathak dance style and the Kendra.
The management of Kathak Kendra work as the Executive Board of the Sangeet Natak Akademi, which is aided by an Advisory Committee with recommendatory powers. The Chairman of the Advisory Committee is the Vice-Chairman of Sangeet Natak Akademi.
Kathak Kendra has gained a specific name for its performances and talented students. Hundreds of aspirants get enrolment in this Kendra and evolve as a proficient dancer and also as a high morale human being.
