In a vibrant extension of its annual classical music celebration, the LearnQuest Festival introduced a classical dance segment this year. Held on May 10, 2025, at Chinmaya Maruti in Andover, MA, in association with Chinmaya Mission and Bhumika Arts, the event showcased four major Indian classical dance styles, performed by leading artists. 

The addition of dance brought a refreshing new dimension to the festival, drawing enthusiastic audiences and wide acclaim. The festival opened with a compelling Kathak performance by Shefali Jain and the dancers of the Chhandika Institute of Kathak. Born and raised in the U.S., Shefali has embraced Kathak as her professional path, and her performance reflected both dedication and depth. The program began with a Pushpanjali, followed by a powerful enactment of Draupadi Vastraharan—the disrobing of Draupadi from the Mahabharata. Shefali vividly portrayed multiple characters including Duryodhana, Shakuni, Yudhishthira, Arjuna, Bhima, and Dushasana, bringing emotional nuance and clarity to each. The scene of Draupadi’s humiliation and her ultimate rescue through Krishna’s grace was especially moving. The performance concluded with an energetic pure dance segment (nritta), highlighting Shefali’s technical brilliance and rhythmic command.

Next was a captivating Bharatanatyam presentation by Aishwarya Balasubramanian and her students. A disciple of the renowned Anita Guha, Aishwarya opened with a crisp and devotional piece dedicated to Lord Shiva, ending gracefully with the chant “Om Namo Rudraye.” She then presented a full-length traditional Varnam centered on the Nayika’s longing for Shiva—a rarity on many contemporary stages. The sancharis were imaginative and evocative, and the jathis were delivered with precision and vigor. Aishwarya’s performance was a true treat, combining emotive abhinaya with technical finesse.

The festival also featured a Kuchipudi recital by Vedya Spurthi Konda and an Odissi presentation by Guru Sanchita Banerjee. Regrettably, I was unable to attend these segments, though they were much anticipated and well received by the audience.

The inaugural Learnquest Classical Dance Festival was a brilliant and welcome addition to the annual event. It not only celebrated the diversity and richness of Indian classical dance but also underscored the growing interest and talent in the diaspora. I eagerly look forward to its growth in the years to come.