Episode Notes

APURVA BENDRE is an elite Kathak Dancer and a splendid Choreographer. Currently pursuing her Alankar (Post-Graduation) in Kathak, Apurva has more than 23 years of on-stage performing experience. Known for her versatility, Apurva, a Mime artist & Harmonium player, is also a master of other dance forms such as Folk, Ballet and Contemporary. Being a celebrated Kathak dancer, she has been invited as a Judge for many competitions. Honored with immense appreciation all over India, she has performed for National Television on multiple occasions. After coming to USA in 2017, Apurva was invited to perform in various events in Columbus and Indianapolis.

Currently, Apurva is earning a Ph.D. in Health Economics from IU School of Liberal Arts.

Show Highlights

(0:06:14) Balancing PhD and Riyaaz

(0:17:51) Training in Mumbai

(0:22:30) Staying on the path

(0:23:56) Kathak Competitions

(0:28:52) Stories from live performances

(0:30:26) What to look for in collaborators

(0:35:23) The joy of performing in front of Guru

(0:37:23) Teaching Plans in the future

(0:40:00) Matka Gat

(0:42:15) Attracting a younger generation to Kathak

(0:44:23) Creating relatability in Kathak

(0:46:11) Starting out in Indiana

(0:50:46) Being a judge

(0:55:13) Choreographies for social media

(0:59:28) Camera Focused Choreography

(1:05:39) Choreographic Investigation

(1:12:20) The vaue of a support system

(1:19:42) Future plans

(1:25:33) advice to Kathakas coming to US

Title Track Audio Credit: Doug Maxwell | Bansure Raga