In Step with Astad Deboo

In his debut dance drama, Bhave: Where Emotions Move, Delhi choreographer Pradeep Kumar talks about how human emotions shape our everyday life and being inspired by his late guru, Astad Deboo, in his choreography

- AKASH CHATTERJEE

FOR dancer and choreographer Pradeep Kumar, Bhave: Where Emotions Move, a dance drama holds special significance for two reasons. First, it was the dancer's debut show as a choreographer after years of performing as a Mayurbhanj Chhau and modern contemporary dancer. It also recalls his guru, the late choreographer Astad Deboo.

"For me, he was not just a teacher or mentor; he was like a father," said Kumar.

It was obvious to Kumar that his first programme would be a tribute to the late choreographer. "Deboo ji had a style. Although he was a champion of modern contemporary dance, he also knew multiple other dances. He mixed all of that to create a different style. Bhave [performed at India Habitat Centre on August 8] was nothing but an exploration of what Deboo ji taught us," he said.