Authentic Kathak Dance Classes in Mumbai
Join my Kathak classes across Mumbai to learn the depth of nritta and abhinay. Whether you are a beginner or looking to refine your technique, we have a space for you.
A candid moment from a rehearsal where my students are doing a quick mental run-through of the choreography. This is a common sight for dancers, a quiet moment of focus before the music begins.
This is my company class doing riyaaz together. We are practicing a Tihayee composed by the respected Guru Prerna Shrimali ji, focusing on synchronicity and clean execution of the rhythmic patterns.
My students practicing a thaat, the first stylized movement in a traditional Kathak performance. Here we are working within a 13 matra cycle, focusing on the grace and control that this slow, introductory piece demands.
Here, my students are practicing a paran set in Rupak taal, a rhythmic cycle of 7 beats. The focus is on maintaining the group's timing and energy while executing the powerful and intricate choreography.
A clip from our 'Samanvay' practice session, where we work on coordinating complex footwork patterns as a group. You can see the focus required to stay in sync with the intricate 'takita takita dhin' bols.
My students and I are practicing a piece called 'Samanvay'. The transcript shows us counting 'tigda dig dig thai', which are the rhythmic syllables we dance to, ensuring our footwork is perfectly timed.
A rehearsal in progress at one of my Mumbai studios. The dancers are moving through a piece of choreography, their arms extended in a classic Kathak pose, showing the discipline and unity we build in class.
Another view of a rehearsal at the studio. You can see the reflection in the mirror, which is a crucial tool for dancers to check their posture, alignment, and synchronization with the group.
A moment of preparation before a performance. Here, I am demonstrating a movement to a student while the musicians are seated in the background, showing the collaborative process of getting ready for the stage.
My team and I rehearsing for an upcoming performance at a flea market in Bandra. Even for informal settings, we practice with full dedication to present the beauty of Kathak to a wider audience.
About Join My Mumbai Classes
In these Mumbai sessions, we do not just run through steps. Every class is an exercise in listening and responding—that crucial sawal-jawab (question-answer) with our live Tabla and Harmonium players. You will feel the difference of dancing to live rhythm versus a recording, as it pushes you to hold your taal (rhythm) and execute your chakkars (spins) with precision alongside your peers.
A Traditional Approach to Kathak
Kathak is a sadhana (practice), and my classes in Mumbai are designed to mirror that journey. We operate in small batches of 10 to 20 students across our Juhu, Vile Parle, and Virar branches. This limit ensures that everyone gets personal attention, which is vital when you are learning the nuances of anga shuddhi (body posture) and alignment.
What We Focus On
- Nritta & Abhinay: We spend time on both technical footwork and the expressive storytelling that defines Kathak. You will learn to perform with grace, whether you are just starting or preparing for exams.
- Live Accompaniment: Very few studios offer this, but it is essential. You will dance with live Tabla and Harmonium support, which trains your ear to catch every beat and nuance.
- Structured Learning: Classes are held twice a week, 8 sessions per month. We use professional dance-grade flooring to ensure you can practice your spins and footwork safely.
Who This Is For
Whether you have never worn ghungroos or you are an intermediate dancer wanting to go pro with a diploma course, you are welcome. I also help students prepare for their BA or MA Kathak degrees if you are serious about taking this path academically. If you are ever unsure about a movement, ask me—I have been a student for 20 years, and I still have days where I have to correct myself. We learn this together.
Pooja Pant
I am Pooja Pant. I grew up learning from my Guru, Smt Rajashree Shirke, and today, I bring that same discipline and love for Kathak to my studios in Mumbai. I am not just your teacher; I am a fellow student of this art, and I invite you to join our community and start your riyaaz with us.
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