Our Bureau
Houston, TX
The stage at MATCHBOX 4 came alive with the rhythmic grace and timeless beauty of Kathak as Shinjini Kulkarni, granddaughter of the legendary Pt. Birju Maharaj, delivered a spellbinding performance in Parampara. Carrying forward the rich legacy of her grandfather, Shinjini captivated the audience with her breathtaking footwork, expressive storytelling, and deep-rooted devotion to the classical art form.
The concert beautifully embodied its title, as the audience witnessed the essence of lineage and tradition unfold before them. “Parampara” is more than just a word—it signifies the continuity of artistic heritage, ensuring that the grace and wisdom of Kathak are preserved for future generations.
The evening was a tribute to the soul of Kathak, blending tradition with a contemporary touch while staying true to the essence of the Lucknow gharana. Each movement, each turn, and each expression reflected the lineage of a maestro, leaving the audience in awe of her artistry.
The performance was nothing short of mesmerizing, transporting spectators into a world where rhythm and emotion merged seamlessly. With her impeccable technique and profound stage presence, Shinjini Kulkarni once again proved that she is a torchbearer of her grandfather’s timeless legacy.
This unforgettable evening was made possible by Indo-American Association Houston, which organized the show as part of its ongoing commitment to promoting classical Indian arts. Parampara marked the third show of the 2025 season on March 2, continuing IAA’s tradition of bringing world-class performances to the Houston cultural scene.
In addition to her stellar performance, Shinjini conducted workshops with the students of Shivangini Academy on Friday and Saturday. These sessions provided young dancers with the invaluable opportunity to learn from a distinguished artist and culminated in a special performance alongside Shinjini.
The academy’s founder and artistic director, Shiva Mathur, along with her daughter Tarika Nath, played an instrumental role in mentoring these students and fostering a deep appreciation for the art form.
The evening was further elevated by the presence of live musicians, whose expertise brought depth and vibrancy to the performance. Accompanying Shinjini were Pt. Gaurisankar (Tabla), Tarika Nath (Vocal), Sameer Kotasthane (Harmonium), Shekhar Phatak (Harmonium/Vocal), each contributing their exceptional talent to the immersive experience.
The program commenced with an introduction by the Education Outreach Liaison, Vinita Arora, who emphasized the significance of cultural preservation and artistic exchange.
In her vote of thanks, the Executive Director Sheetal Bedi expressed how gratifying it was for IAA to present the granddaughter of the most renowned Kathak Maestro, Pt. Birju Maharaj. She fondly recalled that Pt. Birju Maharaj had graced the IAA stage in 2016, during which a young Shinjini had accompanied her grandfather as a dedicated student of Kathak. Witnessing her evolution as an artist reaffirmed the evening’s theme of “Parampara.” The evening was a true testament to this enduring legacy.
A special acknowledgement to “Golden Ray Photography” by Thiru for capturing the essence of the evening through stunning photography, preserving the magic of the performance for years to come.
As the final beats echoed through the theater, the standing ovation spoke volumes—the audience had witnessed something truly unforgettable. Parampara was not just a dance recital; it was a celebration of tradition, passion, and the enduring spirit of Indian classical dance.
