Pune: The rhythms of ghungroos, intricate expressions and graceful footwork took centre stage at Avartan 2026, a kathak presentation organised by Lyom Institute of Arts and Media to mark its 16th anniversary.Held at Yashwantrao Chavan Natyagruha in Kothrud on Monday, the event featured around 125 dancers between the ages of six and 50. Renowned dancer Radhika Sathe attended the programme as the chief guest.The presentation began with 120 dancers performing Namami Shamishan, the Rudrashtakam, with lamps in their hands. This was followed by Ganesh Stuti, a Teen Taal presentation, the devotional composition Deh Vitthal Vitthal Zhala He, and Shiv-Gauri, performed by Lyom founder Vedanti Bhagwat Mahadik.The students also presented Dhamar, fusion compositions on bandishes and a special tribute to legendary singer Asha Bhosle. Songs including Nigahen Milane Ko Ji Chahta Hai and Jhumka Gira Re were presented through Kathak performances. The programme concluded with Rukmini Swayamvar, which combined expressive acting with rhythmic footwork.Speaking on the occasion, Sathe praised Mahadik and her students. Referring to their common guru, Pt Rajendra Gangani, she described herself and Mahadik as guru sisters. She emphasised the importance of having art as a foundation in life and said learning an art form helps instil discipline and enrich one’s overall personality, irrespective of whether a student pursues it professionally.The institute also presented its ‘Student of the Year’ award to Tanishka Kulkarni for her performance during the year. Shekhar Dere, who worked on the illustrations for Mahadik’s book Kathak Shastra, Kimaya Belose for photography and the beauty department, and assistant writer Isha Kulkarni were also felicitated.Speaking about Kathak Shastra, Mahadik said the book was written to make the study material for Kathak examinations easier for students. The first three examination levels are currently covered, with the book available in Marathi, English and Hindi. A second volume is also being planned.The event’s lighting was handled by Omkar Hajare, sound by Rajendra Borawke, and the programme was compered by Varada Bhide.
