– A Tribute by Uttara Asha Coorlawala
In 1984, in Bombay at the East-West Dance Encounter, was when I first saw some kathak that had an exciting contemporary flair, simpler yet figure flattering costumes, dancers flowing in and out of spatial group patterns (as opposed to solos) and flashing through rhythmic designs. I was floored. Until then Kathak had always seemed like a heritage dance form, old precious, subtle complex. And the choreographer of this iconic dynamic new kathak was none other than Kumudini Lakhia from Ahmedabad. Her methods were quickly appropriated by so many kathak dancers that what once was perceived as daring and avante garde soon became mainstream!
The next day at the seminar following the performance described above, Kumudiniben spoke to the small tightly curated gathering of dancer-choreographers. Referring to the content of most kathak abhinaya of her time, that consisted of dances of the gopis pining for or playing with Krishna, – Kummudiniben said simply and with conviction – “I want a divorce from Krishna” A dead silence followed her announcement. Then all participants stood up and cheered. At last the subject of dance could be normal middleclass women with their realistic concerns!
In the years that followed that pivotal moment, I had many opportunities to be swept away by her choreographic brilliance, her ready witty, cheeky but observant responses and her compassionate relationship with younger dancers. She graciously agreed to appear on our Erasing Borders on the September 22nd, 2021 virtual Dance Festival. Accolades and memorial recollections have been pouring in, an icon for so many. Dearest Kummiben, you worked hard and gave generously to generations following you. RIP
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Uttara Asha Coorlawala
Senior Curator,
IAAC Erasing Borders Dance Festival