Kathak & Semi-Classical Dance Workshops
Discover the grace and storytelling of Kathak. Whether you are mastering complex chakkars or exploring lyrical semi-classical flows, these sessions focus on technique, emotion, and finding your own movement.
A semi-classical piece performed in a beautiful, sunlit studio in Mumbai. The choreography focuses on graceful spins and expressive movements, capturing a feeling of serene joy.
A rehearsal shot for 'Sitayana', a professional dance production. This pose captures the strength and grace inherent in classical forms, showing how we use the body to tell epic stories.
Another moment from 'Sitayana' rehearsals, this time focusing on 'abhinaya' or facial expression. This is how we convey the deep emotions of a character, bringing the story to life.
Teaching a semi-classical piece in a sari adds a different layer of grace and challenge. This video shows a snippet from a workshop focused on fluid movements and traditional aesthetics.
A solo semi-classical performance at Base Studios. This choreography blends traditional Kathak elements with a contemporary feel, focusing on control, poise, and emotional expression.
A quiet moment captured in full Kathak costume. The traditional attire, with its wide skirt, is an integral part of the dance, creating beautiful shapes during spins and movements.
Snippets from a live Kathak performance on stage. This showcases the dynamic energy of a showcase, from synchronized partner work to the powerful spins that are a hallmark of the style.
About this collection
When we get into the studio, we do not just memorize steps. We spend time breaking down abhinaya (facial expressions) and footwork details, because that is where the real story lives. You will find me teaching at places like All Things Studio or GLU Studios in Mumbai, and my sessions are built for an intermediate pace—we will sweat, we will try that spin again if you trip, and we will record our progress at the end of class.
My approach to Kathak and semi-classical dance is rooted in tradition but built for the modern dancer. Whether you are joining me for a 2-hour pop-up or a multi-day weekend intensive, the focus remains the same: understanding the language of movement.
What we focus on
- Kathak Technique: We dive deep into the foundations—Tatkar (footwork), Chakkars (spins), and the specific posture that gives the dance its grace.
- Abhinaya (Expression): This is the soul of my classes. It is not just about the steps; it is about how you use your eyes and gestures to convey the narrative of the song.
- Fusion Flow: I love blending the structure of classical Kathak with contemporary movement. We experiment with lyrical semi-classical pieces that let you find your own rhythm rather than just following a rigid script.
Practical details
I host these workshops at premium studios across Mumbai, including The Movement Hub in Khar and All Things Studio in Andheri. The vibe is always open and welcoming. Do not worry if you are not perfect; the goal is to learn the choreography, build your stamina, and have fun doing it.
Most workshops are open level, but I keep the pacing at an intermediate level to ensure we can actually get into the technical nuances. At the end of every session, we spend the final 15 minutes recording group videos. It is a great way to see your progress and have something to look back on. If you are preparing for a specific showcase or just want to refine your technique, we can work on blocking and formation as well.
Saloni Saraf
I am a Kathak dancer who has spent years chasing stages and stories, from Mumbai to London. For me, dance is simply about freedom and connection—I want you to leave my class feeling a bit lighter, sweaty, and definitely more like yourself.
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