Dastaan-e-Kathak: Dance of Silence

The much-awaited third edition of Dastaan-e-Kathak: The Story of a Storyteller is set to grace the historic Travancore Palace on February 4. This year’s festival themed The Dance of Silence, promises a transformative exploration of Indian classical arts through the interplay of words, sound, and silence.

Founded as a tribute to the legendary Pt Birju Maharaj, the festival continues to honour his legacy by presenting Kathak and other classical art forms in innovative ways. Since its debut in 2023, Dastaan-e-Kathak has emerged as a prominent cultural event, blending traditional storytelling with contemporary interpretations to engage modern audiences.

The 2025 edition will feature a series of carefully curated performances. Among them are sound meditation practices, which will highlight the therapeutic and spiritual dimensions of silence. There will also be performances by maestros and emerging talent, showcasing original works inspired by the festival’s theme and blending classical techniques with modern perspectives.

Additionally, the festival will present “The Evolution of Indian Dance Costumes,” a visual presentation celebrating the aesthetics and storytelling embedded in classical dance attire.

Curated by renowned Kathak dancer Shivani Varma, a disciple of Pt Birju Maharaj and Guru Shovana Narayan, the festival reflects her commitment to preserving India’s cultural heritage. “Dastaan-e-Kathak is not just a festival—it’s a movement that celebrates the storyteller within us all,” she said.

Varma, an empanelled artist with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations and a member of the Sahitya Kala Parishad, envisions the festival as a platform bridging traditional and contemporary art forms. Her illustrious career includes collaborations with AR Rahman and performances at prestigious events such as the Lucknow Literature Festival.

The festival’s previous editions have set a high standard for innovation and inclusivity. The inaugural 2023 edition featured live performances by Pt Hariprasad Chaurasia, Pt Sajan Mishra, and filmmaker Muzaffar Ali at venues like Sunder Nursery and Lodi Art District, attracting over 1,000 guests, including UNESCO representatives. The 2024 edition broke new ground with a digital format, showcasing 90-second conceptual performances by 13 artists on platforms like Instagram and YouTube, captivating a global audience.

Also Read: Kathakar Storytellers Festival returns to Delhi, featuring global legends and performers

Supported by the Ministry of Culture, UNESCO India, the Aditya Birla Group, The Claridges Hotel, and the Good Earth Foundation, the festival has fostered cultural exchange and reached diverse audiences.

This year’s theme, The Dance of Silence, seeks to redefine how Indian classical arts are experienced. “Silence is not an absence of sound but an eloquent medium of expression,” said Varma. She also shared her vision for the newly established Kathak Day Trust, aiming to preserve Pt Birju Maharaj’s philosophy and further the cause of Indian cultural heritage.

When: February 4

Where: Travancore Palace, New Delhi