GIIS Ahmedabad Inspires Students Through Indian Classical Dance – Kathak

In India, music and dance have always been more than artistic expressions. They are sacred paths connecting the soul to the divine, carrying centuries of culture, philosophy, and values. Keeping this deep-rooted tradition alive, GIIS Ahmedabad recently organized an inspiring Indian classical dance concert as part of its cultural initiative, Sangeet for Peace, in collaboration with SPIC MACAY.

A Soulful Kathak Experience

The evening’s highlight was a mesmerizing Kathak dance performance by Vidushi Malti Shyam, an acclaimed exponent of the Lucknow Gharana. Trained under the legendary Padma Vibhushan Pandit Birju Maharaj and Shrimati Deba Vidyarthi, Vidushi Malti Shyam brought a unique blend of grace, precision, and deep emotional expression to the stage. Her performance exemplified how kathak is a classical dance form that tells stories through rhythmic footwork and expressive gestures, narrating age-old tales.

Accompanied by Shri Zaki Ahmad (Vocal and Harmonium), Shri Zaheen Khan (Tabla), and Smt. Harshita Sharma (Padhant) delivered a performance that became a harmonious blend of rhythm, melody, and narrative expression. The resonating harmonium, vibrant tabla beats, and vocal elaboration perfectly complemented the intricate footwork and elegant spins of Kathak dance. Parents seeking admission in CBSE schools today look for institutions that offer a balanced education—one that blends modern academics with cultural heritage.

Honouring Tradition in Modern Education

Vidushi Malti Shyam reflected, “Art is not just about performance; it is about passing on values, culture, and emotions to the next generation. I was moved by such an attentive and respectful audience. GIIS Ahmedabad has created a beautiful space where tradition is honoured, and young minds are nurtured with artistic sensibility.”

Principal Mr. Caesar D’silva said, “We believe that holistic development includes cultural appreciation. Bringing maestros like Vidushi Malti Shyam to our campus offers students a rare opportunity to experience India’s timeless art forms up close. Events like these plant seeds that will blossom into deeper awareness and pride in our heritage.”

GIIS Ahmedabad continues to stand out, combining world-class education with cultural values. It remains among the top preschools in Ahmedabad and top international schools in Ahmedabad, shaping well-rounded individuals who embrace the future without forgetting their past.

Why Cultural Events Matter in Education?

Cultural events like Sangeet for Peace offer far-reaching benefits in education.

1. Boosting Cognitive and Emotional Skills

Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences suggests that learning occurs in various ways. Watching a Kathak dance performance activates both auditory and bodily-kinesthetic intelligences. Students observe complex footwork and rhythmic patterns, strengthening memory, coordination, and focus.

Additionally, traditional dances in India utilize expressive gestures to convey stories, enabling children to better understand emotions and develop empathy. Studies show that cultural exposure improves emotional recognition and interpersonal communication, which are essential for personal and social development.

2. Fostering Cultural Identity and Pride

Erik Erikson’s developmental theory emphasizes that a stable sense of identity is crucial, particularly during adolescence. Experiencing classical dance forms of India firsthand helps students connect with their cultural roots, fostering a sense of pride and belonging.

Vidushi Malti Shyam put it best: “Art is not just about performance; it is about passing on values, culture, and emotions to the next generation.”

Such events help students appreciate India’s rich heritage, thereby strengthening their sense of identity in a globalized world.

3. Enhancing Creativity and Critical Thinking

Cultural performances encourage students to interpret complex rhythms, gestures, and narratives, fostering a deeper understanding of diverse cultures. This engagement sparks creative thinking and sharpens problem-solving skills. Analyzing the structure of a Kathakali dance form challenges students to think symbolically and develop mental flexibility.

4. Promoting Social Skills and Inclusion

Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory emphasizes that learning is a social process. The GIIS Ahmedabad concert brought together students, parents, and teachers, fostering a sense of community and mutual respect. Exposure to diverse traditional dances in India helps students appreciate cultural diversity, promoting inclusive, globally minded citizenship.

5. Supporting Well-Being and Reducing Stress

Engagement with the arts is associated with lower stress and improved mental health. A live Indian classical dance performance offers students a creative and immersive break from academic pressures, promoting relaxation and a positive mood.

Cultivating Global Citizens with Roots

GIIS Ahmedabad’s philosophy is simple yet powerful. As India rises as a global leader, its youth must stay connected to the richness of their past. Through initiatives like Sangeet for Peace, the school fosters not only academic excellence but also cultural pride, creativity, and emotional intelligence, preparing students to thrive in a diverse and interconnected world.