Prerana Deshpande" was Ms. Deshpande the mistress of her dance or its servant?.. Both. At times you felt her surrendering to its impulse as she allowed her torso to sway gorgeously; at times you felt the brilliance of her control as she changed an already elaborate rhythm with her feet. The rhythmic complexity and the intricate physical coordination of her solo proved astonishing.†- Alastair Macaulay, Dance Critic, The New York Times in 2009. Acknowledged by connoisseurs as a solo dancer of repute and a creative choreographer of rare caliber, Prerana Deshpande is among the leading complete solo Kathak dancers of her generation. Internationally acclaimed as a creative dancer whose work reveals the perpetually expanding horizons of the traditional form, Prerana is regarded for her exquisite command over the fundamentals of Kathak - Rhythm, Grace, & Expression and for her creativity rooted in the tradition of this dance form. Greatly appreciated by all audiences for her expertise in Kathak, she is regularly invited to perform as a solo artist at all major venues and festivals in India and abroad.
She believes in Kathak as means for artistic expression. Her choreography presentations of various classical as well as theme-based subjects are applauded by classes and masses alike. Her evolving body of work of choreography and collaborative productions, which includes music of varied genres, highlights her keen awareness of musical aesthetics.
" I believe that in any art form, the reflection of the artist's individuality and personality in their art makes them a complete artist. Deep knowledge of the art under the guidance of a Guru, intense training, and true passion are the only ways to achieve it," says Kathak Guru.
Recipient of numerous awards, Prerana has been felicitated by legendary Pt. Birju Maharaj with 'Gaurav Puruskar'. Prerana has also been honored with the title of 'Nrityashri' and was conferred the title of 'Singar Mani' by the Sur Singar Samsad of Mumbai.
She encourages and promotes Kathak as a traditional, pure, solo art form. This she does through numerous workshops, seminars, and lecture demonstrations where she is often invited to India and abroad.
Prerana shares her knowledge and experiences as a Kathak dancer as a Guru at the Centre of Performing Arts at Pune University and through her own institute - NRITYADHAM.
It is a pleasure to inform all our listeners about our latest project with Radio City. Sakal Media Group's current project is to support people through this covid crisis with various mental health initiatives. Our latest initiative is series of podcasts, #WeAreInThisTogether to bring forth positive ideas, new habits, tools regarding self-care, healing practices, etc. To add value, fresh perspective, more energy (physically & emotionally) to all the people who need support in this time of crisis.
We are delighted that Pune's renowned doctors, professionals, artists are giving their time to such an important cause, and we are very thankful.
Following is the list of questions that we have asked Guru Prerna Deshpande, to help, motivate, and inspire us in our daily lives.
Q.1- How are you, Really?
Q.2- How do you keep yourself positive throughout the day? Can you share some of your practices?
Q.3- What have you unlearnt, let go of during this covid crisis?
Q.4- What does self-care look like for you?
Q.5- What is the one good news that you can’t wait to tell us?