Nazuk Rao, a writer based in Lahore, expressed, ‘Dancing is my way of resistance.’ She began learning semi-classical dance under the guidance of Fatima Amjed, a dedicated dancer and instructor in Lahore, who skillfully combines tradition with innovation in her teaching methods.
Classical dance, also referred to as Indian or Hindustani classical dance, encompasses various regionally specific dance traditions within the Indian subcontinent, including Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Kathakali, Sattriya, Manipuri, and Mohiniyattam. Each of these traditions has its roots in different parts of India.
For instance, Bharatanatyam originated in Tamil Nadu in southern India, Odissi in the eastern state of Odisha, and Manipuri in the northeastern state of Manipur. The question arises: how can an art form deeply entrenched in Indian culture and society thrive and be celebrated in Pakistan?
Cultural identity dilemma
Sheema Kermani, a prominent classical dancer, social activist, and founder of the Tehrik-e-Niswan Cultural Action Group (Women’s Movement), shed light on the issue. She explained that soon after Partition, Pakistan faced a dilemma regarding its cultural identity.
Kermani, who has been dancing for the past 50 years and specializes in Bharatanatyam, is a well-known figure in the field of classical dance. Based in Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, she is not only a dancer and choreographer but also a dance guru, theatre practitioner, performer, director, producer, and television actor.
