Lucknow: Renowned Odissi dancer and Padma Vibhushan awardee Sonal Mansingh presented a special lecture-demonstration on ‘Panch Kanya’ at Surya Auditorium on Tuesday.In Hinduism, the ‘Panch Kanya’ (five kanyas) is referred to a group of five iconic women of the Hindu epics – Ahalya, Draupadi, Kunti, Tara, and Mandodari. While Draupadi and Kunti are from the Mahabharat, Ahalya, Tara, and Mandodari are from the Ramayan.Focusing on ‘Pancha Kanya’, Mansingh said these women were not merely characters from ancient texts but living symbols of resilience and inner power.“Panch Kanya reminds us that womanhood cannot be confined to one definition. These five women aced immense trials, but they did not lose their dignity, strength or sense of self. Their lives became examples for generations of women because they proved their mettle in the most difficult circumstances,” she added.The event was organised by The Prabha Khaitan Foundation and brought together art lovers, scholars and admirers of Indian classical traditions.Kanak Rekha Chauhan praised Mansingh’s contribution to Indian classical dance and cultural thought. “Sonal Mansingh ji is not only a legendary dancer but also a profound interpreter of Indian civilisation,” she said.
