Madhu Nataraj Reflects on Dance's Evolution at Fifth Edition of Dr Maya Rao Conference
As the Dr Maya Rao Kathak & Choreography Conference prepares to return for its landmark fifth edition this weekend, renowned choreographer Madhu Nataraj believes the timing could not be more significant. The event, titled Choreographing Continuum, brings together distinguished speakers and performers to celebrate sixty remarkable years of Dr Maya Rao's enduring legacy while simultaneously exploring what dance must transform into within our rapidly evolving world.
From Ancient Mysticism to Cutting-Edge Technology: A Modern Repertoire
For Madhu Nataraj, contemporary choreography must actively respond to the era it inhabits. "We deeply engage with the rich traditions of Indian philosophy and mysticism, while also giving voice to urgent contemporary issues like climate action, gender equity, and broader social change," she explains. Her own artistic work spans this vast spectrum, moving fluidly from traditional dance vocabulary to innovative explorations involving artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR). She firmly believes this inherent ability to evolve and adapt perfectly reflects the continuum of artistic practice embodied by the late Dr Maya Rao.
Echoing this progressive spirit, the upcoming conference will feature a pioneering, first-of-its-kind sensorial exhibition. This immersive experience is designed to trace nearly nine full decades of Indian dance history, offering attendees a unique journey through time and artistic expression.
The Critical Need for Mentorship in a Creative Generation
Despite acknowledging certain concerns about the current landscape, Madhu Nataraj remains fundamentally hopeful about the future of dance. "Today's generation of dancers is undoubtedly fearless and brimming with creativity," she observes. "However, what they crucially require is dedicated mentorship. The sheer scale of opportunity available today must be matched with corresponding gravitas and depth of guidance."
She also expresses a poignant worry about the gradual erosion of dance as a shared, live communal experience. "A live performance is essentially a sacred ritual of direct exchange between performer and audience," she reflects. "In the online realm, that connection is fragile; a viewer can simply swipe away. Recreating that profound depth of engagement, moving beyond mere likes and viral trends, represents the genuine artistic challenge lying ahead for all of us."
Confronting the Two-Dimensional Screen: Depth Versus Virality
While acknowledging that social media platforms have democratized visibility for artists, Madhu Nataraj is deeply concerned about what has been sacrificed in the process. "During the pandemic, the very essence of dance collapsed into the confines of a screen," she recalls. "Suddenly, the focus shifted dramatically towards who could achieve viral fame."
She feels the rise of short-form content has dangerously shifted artistic priorities from disciplined rigour to the pursuit of instant gratification. "Artists now spend days meticulously crafting twenty-second reels," she notes. "But does that process cultivate the stamina and depth required for a sustained ninety-minute live performance?"
Madhu extends this critique to popular reality television shows, which she feels often prioritize spectacle over substance. "Today, many shows are overwhelmingly about acrobatics—dramatic jumps, splits, and visual spectacle. One must ask: where has the inherent grace gone? Where is the emotional and narrative depth that defines great dance?" she questions, calling for a renewed appreciation for the art form's foundational qualities.
