Aunusthan

Under the direction of award-winning Kathak choreographer Urja Desai Thakore, a new generation of South Asian diasporic artists brings a fresh perspective to the classical dance form.

Intricate footwork, expressive gestures and interwoven rhythms reveal the many possibilities of Kathak in a performance led by choreographer Urja Desai Thakore and Pagrav Dance Company. Bringing together artists from across the South Asian diaspora trained with the company, ‘Aunusthan’ explores the classical form through individual expression and the precision of ensemble choreography.

Conceived and choreographed by Thakore, the production moves through shifting relationships between dancers, with tightly coordinated sequences giving way to moments of virtuosity. Percussion drives the exchanges, building a dynamic interplay between movement and rhythm. With music by Alap Desai and Atul Desai, the work moves between subtle expression and exuberant rhythmic passages, showcasing Kathak’s expressive and kinetic possibilities.

The ensemble features Urja Desai Thakore alongside dancers Meera Patel, Mira Moshika Salat, Parbati Chaudhury, Shyam Dattani and Vishesh Mehta. The music team comprises Hiren Chate, Gurdain Rayatt, Kaviraj Singh Dhadyalla and Vanraj Shashtri. Production credits include lighting design by Dinesh Kumar M, sound by Om Desai, costumes by Sandhya Raman, and executive direction and creative production by Lia Prentaki.

A disciple of Kumudini Lakhia, Thakore trained at Kadamb in Ahmedabad for over two decades. Her choreographic work includes Kattam Katti, which earned her the 2023 Eastern Eye Award. She re-established Pagrav Dance Company in the UK in 2005, building on its founding by her mother, Abha Desai, in Ahmedabad. Through the company, she continues to create new work and nurture emerging artists, expanding the possibilities of Kathak in a contemporary diasporic context.   

This performance is supported by Reliance Foundation.