Page 57 - Mann Ki Baat English

From a very early age, I cultural performing arts and
naturally picked up Indian dance, global dialogue.
like a child who naturally mirrors
their environment. The traditional
principle of transmission in
India had already crossed the
boundaries of the invisible. My
mother had a very fine eye for
Kathak students' annual function, 2025
recognising art in someone
For about 35 years, hand in
and directing artists. With her
hand, my parents established
determined and passionate
Mandapa’s vibrant rhythm. Their
energy, she encouraged me in
tireless work ethic cemented the
my dance with the most honest
Centre's reputation, ensuring
advice, the same discerning
a continuous stream of artistic
counsel she gave any artist she
exchange by welcoming
guided.
an impressive 200 to 250
programmes a year.
Punctually, bigger events
were organised off-site, allowing
Mandapa to reach broader
audiences. The '24 Hours of Raga'
concert in 1985 stands out as a
prime example, gathering the
Concert by Nabanita Chowdhary, 2025
leading masters of Hindustani
If its name revealed a strong music - a veritable golden
Indian identity (concerts, dance generation of the genre. This
performances, and its school exceptional 24-hour non-stop
of Indian dance), this core also cycle performance was precisely
embraced the rich traditions that rhythmed by the appropriate
intersect with Indian Heritage. raga for each moment, each
Mandapa thus became a raga being performed by the
vibrant hub dedicated to cross- artist who particularly excelled

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