Manesh Maharaj: preserving the legacy of Kathak in SA

EXQUISITE ART FORM

- CANDICE SOOBRAMONEY

MANESH Maharaj, a Kathak dancer and artistic director of the Kala Darshan - Institute of Classical Music and Dance, has committed his life to nurturing this exquisite art form, while cultivating spiritual and creative growth among his students.

Born and raised in Kharwastan, Maharaj's love affair with Indian classical dance and music began at the age of 7.

This, he said, ignited a lifelong passion that would see him not only leading, but reshaping the landscape of Kathak.

Maharaj matriculated from Kharwastan Secondary School, followed by further studies at the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan in Mumbai, where he earned a B.Mus degree in classical Hindustani music (sangeet visharad), specialising in sitar and vocal music.

Concurrently, he honed his dancing skills under the guidance of his late guru, Sushri Madhurita Sarang, under the Guru-Shishya Parampara system. "I've always wanted to be a classical performing artist. It was a dream as far as Î can remember," said Maharaj, recalling his formative years.

Maharaj's initial inspiration stemmed from his father, the late PT Thegram Maharaj, who not only encouraged him to engage in the performing arts, but also instilled a sense of pride and purpose in his journey.

"When I started high school, a sitar teacher from Mauritius came to teach in Durban. I trained in sitar under him for four years. He was instrumental in, and encouraged me to further my studies in the Indian classical performing arts in India as there was no institute in South Africa that could train me further.

"As a child, I performed regularly for eisteddfods, music and dance festivals, shows and fundraisers. I was an all-rounder with singing, playing a variety of musical instruments as well as dancing. I have fond memories of dancing the role of Lord Krishna among a group of gopikas (milkmaids) for many performances. I actually still do now as a professional Kathakar."