Courtesans through a dance concert

The enticing dance form of Kathak witnessed in the royal courtrooms of a bygone era is set to come alive in a two day concert that begins here on Tuesday.

Conceived and conceptualised by popular Kathak dancer Manjari Chaturvedi, "The Courtesan-An Enigma" seeks to revive the waning art by offering a glimpse into the lives of the hitherto courtesans through the medium of Darbari Kathak. "It is an initiative to not only make the youth aware of this dying art form but also develop the interest of generation X, that will find ways of preservation of the same," Chaturvedi, who would also be performing at the event said.

Darbari Kathak, an alluring and abstract form of kathak, is known for its delicate movements and expressions, and characterized by exquisite costumes. "Now it is rarely performed by classical dancers. The concert seeks to re capture that grandeur, some rare and original compositions that reverberated through the performing arts realm in yesteryears," she said.

Along with the dance, the event will also feature actress Neesha Singh narrating anecdotes from the life and times of a few famous courtesans. "Many preconceived notions about courtesans, often misconstrued, such as their sensibilities, lifestyles, emotions, disposition and ethos would be challenged as light is shed upon numerous aspect of their lives," the danseuse said.

The event is scheduled to be held at the Epicentre in Gurgaon on May 19 followed by a repeat performance at the India International Centre on the following day here.