NNKB’s 2025 Concert “Navras” Brings Emotions to Life Through Kathak
On April 5 and 6, the stage at the Gas South Theater transformed into a vibrant canvas of color, rhythm, and emotion as Nritya Natya Kala Bharti (NNKB) presented its 2025 annual concert, Navras. This year’s theme was Navras, a cornerstone of the Natyashastra, which defines the nine fundamental emotions in Indian classical art. With over 200 performers gracing the stage across two evenings, each piece guided the audience through the full spectrum of human emotion.
[Left] NNKB team and performers taking the final bow
One of the highlights of the evening was Veer Raja Veer, a commanding portrayal of Veer Rasa—the emotion of bravery and heroism. With bold movements, sharp footwork, and thunderous energy, the dancers brought to life the fearless spirit of a warrior king. The choreography was both powerful and regal, capturing the grandeur and sacrifice that define acts of courage.
On the opposite end of the emotional spectrum, Garjat Aayi Re embraced the quiet sorrow and longing of Karuna Rasa in the delicate portrayal of monsoon melancholy. Dancers painted scenes of longing and nostalgia, juxtaposing the joyous arrival of rain with the quiet sorrow of separation. Shades of blue, thunderous rhythms, and expressive movements captured the emotional complexity of the rainy season in a way that was both poetic and poignant.
Adding a charming twist to the evening was Baawre, performed by NNKB’s youngest dancers. Their infectious energy, playful expressions, and vibrant presence brought Haasya Rasa—joy and humor—to life. It was a heart-stealing moment that had the entire auditorium smiling from ear to ear.
Equally captivating was Man Mohini, which interpreted Shringar Rasa—the rasa of love and beauty— through a modern semi-classical lens. Beginning with a timeless Bollywood melody and building into a dynamic display of Kathak technique, the piece was a perfect fusion of elegance and energy. It showcased the NNKB dancers’ versatility and ability to blend classical discipline with contemporary charm.
The Kathak-Flamenco duet was another standout, embodying Adbhut Rasa, the rasa of wonder. Performed by Director Kumud Savla and Flamenco virtuoso Julie Galle, this cross-cultural collaboration was a rhythmic sensation. The striking synergy between Flamenco’s fiery stomps and Kathak’s intricate footwork highlighted the shared language of percussive expression, resulting in a spellbinding performance that left the audience awestruck.
NNKB performers put up a spellbinding show.
The emotional journey of Navras continued with the innovative Navras through Bollywood medley, which brought all nine rasas to life through popular film songs. What made this piece truly special was the live violin performance by Sil Savla, whose musical narration tied together each segment. Sil’s expressive playing elevated the piece into a truly multidimensional celebration of music, movement, and emotion.
The evening concluded with a masterful Tribute to Zakir Hussain. As dancers responded to the intricate rhythms of the tabla with flawless synchronization, the performance became a mesmerizing conversation between percussion and movement—an homage to a musical legend—that perfectly encapsulated the essence of Adbhut Rasa and brought the audience to its feet.
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