# Kathak Utsav – The Rhythmic Dance Heritage of India
Kathak Utsav brings one of North India’s most expressive classical dance traditions to Marin County in a special 90-minute showcase. This inaugural event by the Vedic Arts Institute celebrates Kathak dance, an ancient storytelling art form with precise footwork, rapid spins, and rhythmic patterns that bring mythological tales to life.
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Event Highlights
The performance features world-renowned Kathak master Pandita Uma Dogra as Guest of Honor. She’ll share the stage with her accomplished disciples Smt. Bhairavi Kumar, Jaya Rao, and Sayali Goswami.
Together, they represent the prestigious Jaipur Gharana style. This tradition is known for technical precision and mathematical rhythmic compositions.
What Makes This Performance Special
This is a rare chance for Marin residents to experience authentic Kathak without booking a flight to India. The dancers will showcase the hallmark elements of this centuries-old art form:
About the Artists
Pandita Uma Dogra brings over forty years of experience to the stage. As a Jaipur Gharana master, she’s performed at top venues worldwide and earned several awards from the Indian government for her work in cultural preservation.
The Jaipur Gharana Style
The Jaipur style of Kathak focuses on technical virtuosity and mathematical precision. Dancers spend years training to master intricate footwork and develop the stamina needed for extended performances.
This style really stands out for its emphasis on layakari (rhythmic play) and tatkar (footwork), which create complex patterns against classical Indian music. It’s not easy, but that’s part of the magic.
Practical Information
The event happens at Redwood High School Theater in Larkspur on September 6, 2025, from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM. The venue has convenient parking and comfortable seats with good views of the action—so you won’t miss those intricate steps or expressive gestures.
Getting There
You’ll find the theater at 395 Doherty Drive in Larkspur, just off Highway 101. It’s a good idea to arrive 15-20 minutes early to park and get settled.
The theater usually opens its doors about 30 minutes before showtime.
What to Expect
If you’re new to Kathak, get ready for a multisensory experience packed with rhythmic complexity and storytelling. The performance will probably include both pure dance sequences (nritta) that show off technical skill, and expressive narrative portions (nritya) that bring Indian mythology to life.
Cultural Context
Understanding a few basics really enhances the experience. Kathak started out in ancient India as a temple art form. Later, it found its way into royal courts.
Dancers wear bells on their ankles. They create percussion with their feet, all while keeping the upper body graceful and poised. The name “Kathak” comes from the Sanskrit word “katha,” which means story. That makes sense, since storytelling is at the heart of this dance.
This performance brings an authentic piece of India’s classical heritage right here to Marin County. Whether you’re already into Indian classical arts or just curious, Kathak Utsav offers an evening of technical brilliance and artistic expression.
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