Nalanda: Nalanda University hosted a spellbinding Kathak performance on January 28, celebrating Bihar’s rich cultural and historical heritage. The event, held at the Sushma Swaraj Auditorium, featured acclaimed Kathak artist Smt. Swati Sinha and her eight-member ensemble, presenting a performance that intertwined classical aesthetics with the state’s civilisational narrative.
Organised in collaboration with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), Regional Office Patna, the programme was coordinated by ICCR Regional Director Ms. Swadha Rizvi. It showcased the artistic journey of Bihar, tracing the symbolic flows of the Ganga, Son, and Gandak rivers and paying homage to ancient centres of learning such as Nalanda and Vikramshila. Themes of migration, resilience, and the state’s role in India’s freedom movement were expressed through intricate footwork, storytelling, and evocative choreography.
Smt. Swati Sinha, a Patna-born Doordarshan ‘A’ grade artist and disciple of the legendary Pt. Rajendra Gangani, has performed extensively in India and abroad. Her ensemble’s precise synchronization and emotive expressions captivated the audience, bringing alive Bihar’s enduring legacy in an artistic form that resonated across generations.
participation from Nalanda UniversityThe performance drew participation from Nalanda University’s diverse academic community, including international students, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to intercultural engagement. By hosting such cultural showcases, Nalanda University continues to position itself as a hub where India’s living traditions meet contemporary and global audiences, fostering both learning and appreciation for the country’s rich heritage.
