Co-produced by the Aga Khan Museum and Toronto-based dance company Pratibha Arts, Tarana is a video project focused on engaging audiences with South Asian dance while equipping viewers with educational tools to further the awareness and appreciation of the Kathak tradition.
An exploration of this majestic 14-beat rhythmic cycle, highlighting the crucial role of Tabla drum language in Kathak dance. The first half of the performance features signature repertoire elements of the Kathak dance style. These include the Uthaan, a beginning exposition of rhythm; Thaat, the slow unfolding of movement; Tukde, pieces of rhythmic complexity; Paran Ahmad, the interplay of Tandava and Lasya, or masculine and feminine energies; and Tihaiya, compositions that occur three times to finish on the Sum, the first beat of the rhythmic cycle. The second half evokes the theme of the monsoon season, Malhar, in melody, rhythm and movement.