The vibrant city of Pune recently hosted the Adi Kala Sattra Festival 2025, a spectacular celebration of India's classical dance traditions. This cultural extravaganza delighted local audiences with graceful performances that showcased the nation's rich artistic heritage.
Curated Excellence
Dr Devika Borthakur, a renowned Sattriya dance exponent, carefully curated the festival program. Her expertise ensured that each performance maintained the authentic spirit of these ancient dance forms while engaging contemporary audiences.
Inaugural Ceremony
The festival opened with an auspicious inauguration ceremony. Sucheta Bhide Chapekar, a respected Bharatanatyam dancer and guru, performed the honors alongside Naval Kishore Ram, Commissioner of the Pune Municipal Corporation. Their presence highlighted the event's cultural significance.
Sattriya Takes Center Stage
Sattriya dance emerged as the festival's highlight. This classical form originates from Assam's Vaishnavite monasteries, known as sattras, established by the saint-reformer Srimanta Sankardeva. Audiences appreciated its lyrical grace, expressive storytelling, and spiritual depth.
Dr Borthakur performed Sattriya alongside her dedicated students. Their presentation captured the dance form's traditional essence while demonstrating its continued relevance in modern times.
Diverse Performances
The festival featured several other classical dance forms that captivated Punekars:
- Chhau presented by Akram Shaik and Samhita Chaudhuri with their students
- Kathakali performed by noted artist Renjish Nair
- Kathak danced by Rupa Rani Das-Bora
These performances brought mythological tales to vivid life. Stories like Usha-Anirudh, Bhakta Prahlad, and Andh Muni unfolded through expressive movements and intricate choreography.
Cultural Impact
The Adi Kala Sattra Festival 2025 successfully connected Pune residents with India's classical dance heritage. Each performance demonstrated how these traditional art forms continue to evolve while preserving their historical roots.
Audience members experienced the emotional depth and technical precision that define India's classical dance traditions. The festival created a memorable cultural experience that celebrated both artistic excellence and national heritage.
