Living legend of Manipuri dance Kalavati Devi, recently visited Dhaka to conduct a pure classical Manipuri dance workshop. The Daily Star got the opportunity to observe a session and engage in conversation with the celebrated artiste. The workshop, which was held from July 21 to August 1, involved intensive day-long sessions comprising lessons ranging from the fundamental basics of Manipuri, such as taal, laya, bol, to choreographed routines accompanied by live music. Kalavati Devi put a great deal of emphasis on laying down a strong foundation of Manipuri dance in her students before stepping towards compositions, as she believes that current teaching methods followed focus primarily on the body's movements, which may prove to be unsubstantial in training a full-fledged performer.

From an observer's viewpoint, the workshop seemed far more than just an intensive dance class. Kalavati Devi took time to impart her knowledge of Manipuri culture, anecdotes of her experiences and struggles as a dancer amongst many other stories, which made the workshop considerably more valuable for the participants. Furthermore, her unparalleled enthusiasm and excitement while demonstrating every movement and expression to the students stood as evidence of her incomparable dedication and care towards her craft. The workshop was organised by a leading dance company in Bangladesh, “Bhabna”, set in motion by their director, Samina Husain Prema, who is one of Kalavati Devi's beloved disciples as well as one of the most prominent Manipuri dancers of our country.

During her stay in Dhaka, apart from the workshop, Kalavati Devi also oversaw the development of an upcoming dance drama, titled “Shokuntola”, directed by Samina Husain Prema, which is set to premiere on September 23 this year. Kalavati Devi spoke highly of the work she has seen in progress and asserted that the production is shaping up to be quite aesthetically riveting.

Kalavati Devi believes that embodying an Indian classical dance form, such as Manipuri, understandably takes time, practice and proper guidance. Therefore, on a closing note, she expressed her interest in continuing Manipuri workshops in Bangladesh in the future, having witnessed an abundance of potential and passion amidst the students here.