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 A reflective journey through Ragini Maharaj's Lucknow Gharana Kathak legacy- Kashish Singhale-mail: kash.gem2009@gmail.com April 24, 2026 There are moments in an artiste's journey that quietly become lifelong treasures, moments that do not merely teach but deeply touch the soul. My experience with Ragini Maharaj ji, the scion of late Pandit Birju Maharaj, was one such blessing. She graced us in Singapore with a three-day workshop organized by Bhaskar Arts Academy, an encounter that felt less like a workshop and more like stepping into a living legacy of Kathak.  Ragini Maharaj Representing the depth of the Lucknow Gharana, Ragini Maharaj didi embodies a balance of expression and poise. Yet, beyond the artistry, it was her warmth that left a lasting impression. She dissolved the distance between teacher and student with such ease that one felt not just guided but truly embraced. Through her presence, the essence of the Lucknow tradition unfolded gently, each movement layered with meaning and expression deeply felt. She encouraged us to look beyond technique and connect inward, where dance becomes feeling. For me, it was not just learning but a quiet sense of belonging and affirmation in my Kathak journey. The intermediate workshop was deeply engaging. Didi taught us the kavit "Raas rachat Brij mei Nandlala," a treasured composition by Pt. Birju Maharaj, rendered in his timeless expressive voice. The piece reflects the poise and fluidity of the Lucknow Gharana, bringing to life Krishna's playful raas in Brij, where rhythm and movement convey devotion, inviting us to truly inhabit the story.  Dancers presenting Thumri composed by Pt. Birju Maharaj, choreographed by Ragini Maharaj For advanced students, it was an immersive journey into the heart of the Lucknow Gharana. Participant rasikas performed "Nritya Raas" as the opening act of Didi's recital dedicated to her teachings. Beginning with a lively Tarana in raag Bhairavi and flowing into a delicate Thumri in raag Khamaj, "Lapak jhapak mag rokat shyam dekho" composed by Pt. Birju Maharaj, this piece celebrated Kathak as rhythm, movement, and expression united. The tinkling of ghungroos and the subtle play of the eyes like a fleeting glance between Radha and Krishna, captured the refined poise and living legacy of the Lucknow Gharana. The showcase held the audience spellbound as Didi began her Teentaal repertoire. Opening with Shiv Stuti and Durga Stuti, she moved through Upaj and intricate Tihais, with Kathak lovers joining in during her expressive padhant. Her presentation of Permelu offered fresh perspectives, turning every Tihai into a dialogue of creativity and tradition. She humbly shared, "Sab Guruon ki den hain, mera kuch bhi nahi", embodying the grace of her lineage. From stylized Gat walks of Bindadin Maharaj to compositions depicting nature, animals, and playful sports, every step carried meaning. It was more than a recital; it was a masterclass for all Rasikas and Kathak enthusiasts in Singapore. These three days... they were magical. I feel so much closer to the depth of Kathak, to its emotions, its rhythm, its soul. Gurus like didi Ragini Maharaj remind us why we dance, why we preserve this legacy, and why it must go onward, always onward. My heart is full... forever grateful!  Kashish Singhal is a 16-year-old junior college student from Singapore, a diploma holder and Kathak Natya Visharad from SIFAS under the tutelage of Guru Jyotika Joshi. She has had the privilege of training under the mentorship of Shinjini Kulkarni and Aditi Mangaldas, deepening her understanding of the Lucknow Gharana. She is also a trained Hindustani classical vocalist with 10 years of training and has been actively performing across music and dance platforms. |
