Introduction and Welcome Speech

This performance pays a tribute to India. The main theme of this popular patriotic song centers on the colors, the festivals, and the people of India. The young performers in this dance are in their second year of training even though they are all just 6 yrs and 7yrs old. They are accompanied by students in their fourth year of training

These dancers express the sentiments of young Lord Krishna (one of the prominent Hindu deities) as he complains to his mother about his dark complexion compared to that of his beautiful friend Radha. This complex choreography is being presented by fi rst year students. It is their debut performance!

This song takes the audience to the vibrant and colorful world of the women of Rajasthan (a state in north west India). One of the items in their traditional attire is the chunri which is a piece of cloth worn by the women to cover their head and face. In this song a young woman who is about to get married is being offered a special chunri by her friend. She, however, is only interested in wearing her own chunri with which she has a sentimental attachment. She quotes a variety of reasons to her friend to justify her choice.

Deep Prajwalan Ceremony(Lighting of the sacred Diya by the guest of honors)

This semi classical dance is an ode to one of the most prominent Hindu deities - Shree Ram Chandra. The song talks about the Lord’s beauty, his chivalry and the honor he brings to his parents and ancestors. Shree Ram symbolizes the virtues of Karma and Duty that is emphasized in Hindu philosophy.

Opening Act

In the popular folk dance drama tradition of ancient India, the play begins with the storytellers (Natt and Natti) introducing the story. Charulata is the daughter of a rich devoted father but has recently lost her mother. Her father remarries, hoping that his daughter will once again experience a mother’s love. However, the stepmother and two stepsisters only bring ill treatment and sorrow into Charulata’s young life due to their jealousy of her good looks and sweet nature.

D E S R A N G I L A D A N C E

These danc

Y A S H O M A T I M A I Y Y A S E D A N C E

R A J A S T H A N I F O L K D A N C E

Thi i

S H R E E R A M C H A N D R A – B H A J A N D A N C E

C H A R U L A T A

Act 1 Scene 1

The stepmother and stepsisters keep up a constant harangue of demands. They fl ing verbal and physical abuse at the poor defenseless girl. She is expected to do all the chores for the household and is never allowed to feel she had done anything well. She is ordered to go to the market to fetch groceries for the night’s meal. Despite enduring this appalling treatment, Charulata always maintains an optimistic and tranquil attitude and tries to repay the cruelty and malice with politeness and obedience.

Act 1 Scene 2

In the same town lived the King and Queen and their handsome, compassionate son who they wished to see married. They there-fore suggest that the court ambassador be sent to town to invite all young, single girls to a ball at the palace to meet the Prince who would choose one of them as his bride. The Prince dutifully agrees to their wishes and also asks permission to go to town himself. He wants to get acquainted with the common people of the area and hear their trials and tribulations. The King agrees. At the market, he bumps into Charulata and is mesmerized by her beauty and simplicity.

Act 1 Scene 3

The two stepsisters rush home to tell their Mother this wonderful news. They extol their own virtues and bicker with each other. Charulata also has heard the proclamation in the market and requests her stepmother to take her to the palace as well. She is re-buffed on the grounds of her appearance and the expense involved. She is also given additional arduous tasks such as to separate the rice and wheat grains from a mixture to prevent her from being able to fi nish in time for the ball.

Act 1 Scene 4

As unhappy Charulata is left alone at home, a wondrous vision appears before her. A beautiful fairy appears and asks Charulata why she is so unhappy. When she hears her wish to go to the palace, the fairy magically transforms a simple pumpkin into a glorious palan-quin and mice into palanquin carriers. The fairy warns her that the effect of the magic would last only till midnight and asks Charulata to remember to depart from the ball before that happens.

Intermission

Act 2 Scene 1

At the Kings palace all the unmarried girls attending the ball are vying for the attention of the Prince but he is smitten by Charulata. Everyone, especially the stepmother and stepsisters are puzzled by this unknown beauty who nevertheless looks familiar. The Prince is totally besotted with Charulata and sings odes to her beauty and charm. Before she realizes, it is midnight and Charulata runs out. In her hurry one of her beautiful silver slippers slips off her foot. The Prince, who never even got a chance to know the name of the beauty he was dancing with is crestfallen and tells his parents that he only wishes to marry the girl who had left her slipper. The King and Queen instruct their messengers to locate the one girl whose foot would exactly fi t into the slipper.

Act 2 Scene 2

All the unmarried girls of the city ecstatically try out the slipper brought in by the messengers. However, it does not fi t any of them. The messengers then notice Charulata’s house and are greeted by the over enthusiastic stepmother and stepsisters. Each of them try out the slipper but it fails to fi t their feet. The messengers and the Prince spy Charulata peeping from behind the curtain and ask for her to try on the shoe. The stepmother dismisses the idea, but the Prince insists that in fairness, all unmarried girls should have a chance. Of course the shoe fi ts Charulata perfectly! The Prince and Charulata get married and live happily ever after.

Introduction and Welcome Speech: Anuja Vij and Chitra Desai

DES RANGEELO DANCE Sejal Gupta, Jhilmil Das, Reeti Mangal, Eshita Chhajalani, Manushree Vatani, Neha Bhandari, Ria Murthy, Pranavi Gupta, Sabrina Pirani, Sanika Phanse, Amisha Patel, Meghan Desai, Meera Ruxmohan, Anjali Patel, Natasha Pirani

YASHOMATI MAIYYA SE DANCEAnjana Rajkumar, Pooja Gupta, Arshiya Ramesh, Neha Gupta, Aarushi Agarwal, Shriya Sinha, Kareena Krishan, Kajal Krishan, Anushka Kale, Sarika Shetty, Avni Veerisetty, Janvi Thakker, Shreya Dhutia, Zoya Saxena, Eshna Parikh, Bianca Chandwani, Madhuri Maniar, Urvi Sakhuja, Diya Patel, Anika Saharia, Ruchika Dongre, Sonali Shah

RAJASTHANI FOLK DANCE Puja Patel, Roshni Chandwani, Ashna Dhingra, Anika Tanwani, Anika Ramchand Neeshali Odhav, Shruthi Avantsa, Anushka Choudhry, Nandeeta Patel, Riya Sanghi, Shruti Agarwal, Patrika Lad, Jenna Dewji, Esheeta Bavare, Sarina Patel, Pri-yanka Gandhi, Trisha Gupte

Deep Prajwalan Ceremony (Lighting of the sacred Diya by the guest of honors)

SHREE RAMCHANDRA – BHAJAN DANCE Surina Odhav, Payal Sandhane, Megan Rao, Sonya Chanchlani, Sneha Dama

Introduction of Charulata: Seema Sanghi and Varsha Pangarkar

CHARULATAACT 1 - OPENING SCENETabla Performers: Hiresh TaylorKunal TaylorSunil MotwaniRahul PatelAnurag DasShyam Popat

Dholak Players: Suraiyya SaleemAaron VargheseAnant LalShiva Mathur

Dance Performers:Nat: Shreeya PopatNatti: Karuna AntaniNobleman: Shivani BindalYoung Charulata: Nandeeta PatelStep-sister Rekha: Shruti AgrawalStep-sister Megha: Eeshita BavareStepmother: Shivani Murarka

ACT 1 SCENE 1 Tabla Performers: Anurag Das Rahul Patel Sunil MotwaniArjun MerchantYash TarkundeAkhil Pandya

Dholak Players Vibha AgrawalAnant LalSuraiyya SaleemRajni Agrawal

Dance Performers:Charulata in Rags: Rashi AgrawalStep-sister Rekha: Shipra AgrawalStep-sister Megha: Arti KundalumNat: Shreeya PopatNatti: Karuna AntaniPeacocks: Sanika Phanse, Meera Ruxmohan, Anjali Patel

Commentary in English - Bhakti Pandya and Surina Odhav

ACT 1 SCENE 2Tabla Performers Mayank Phanse,Ankush AgrawalMohit NagraniSiddharth SatishAnurag DasShivam Patel

Dholak Performers: Suraiyya SaleemRajni AgrawalVibha AgrawalAaron Varghese

Dance Performers:King: Saloni ModiQueen: Saniya ChaudhryPrince: Shreya RuxmohanGuard: Tasha AgrawalGuard: Shivani Mukhi

Performers in the market scene:Charulata in Rags: Rashi AgrawalStepsister Rekha: Shipra AgrawalStep Sister Megha: Arti KundalumThief: Mohini BindalJewelery Seller: Shivani BindalWife: Rachita MurthyHusband: Chandini JaggiYoung Man: Jahanvee MittalBread Seller: Tanya HussainHusband: Urvashi MathurBegger: Maya SeernaniWife: Tara Narang

Young Boy: Madhvi SeernaniGajra Seller: Eesha KundraYoung Man: Anisha MathurFruit and vegetable seller: Mishi JainFriend: Tarika NathOld Lady: Amita BatraDupatta Seller: Sabrina PiraniApples and Vegetable sellers: Natasha PiraniYoung girl: Meghan DesaiYoung girl: Amisha PatelFrisky Child: Sanika PhanseSister: Anjali PatelSister: Meera RuxmohanOld Man…fortune teller: Trisha GupteOld Man: Priyanka Gandhi

Messengers: Sonal AgrawalLipika GroverPuja Patel

Dancers in The Market Scene:Bhakti PandyaTarika NathMadhvi SeernaniTanya Hussain Rachita MurthyMohini BindalShilpi AgrawalMishi JainPayal SandhaneEesha KundraEsha ChakrabartiShivani BindalRashi AgrawalSurina Odhav

Commentary in English - Amita Batra and Maya Seernani

ACT 1 SCENE 3Tabla Performers: Shyam PopatHiresh TaylorYash Tarkunde Akhil PandyaAnkit ShahMohit NagraniKunal Taylor Shomik VermaMayank PhanseArjun Merchant

Dholak Players: Anant LalAaron VargheseRajni AgrawalVibha AgrawalSunil Motwani

Vocal Artist:Mithuya Choudhry

Rahul Patel Fruit and vegetable seller: Mishi Jain

Sppeech: Anuja Vij and ACT 1 SCENE 1 Tabla Performers: Anurag Das Rahul Patel

Young Boy: Madhvi SeernaniGajra Seller: Eesha KundraYoung Man: Anisha MathurFruit and vegetable seller: Mishi Jain

Dance Performers:Charulata in Rags: Rashi AgrawalStep-sister Rekha: Shipra AgrawalStep-sister Megha: Arti KundalumStep Mother: Shivani Murarka

Peacocks: Sanika PhanseMeera RuxmohanAnjali Patel

Nat: Shreeya Popat Natti: Karuna Antani

ACT I SCENE 4Tabla Performers Playing the Rela Shyam PopatRahul Patel Shomik VermaAnkush AgrawalAnurag DasArjun MerchantDholak Players Aaron VargheseAnant LalSunil MotwaniShiva Mathur

Sitar Artist:Mrs. Priti Parikh

Vocal Artist:Mrs. Anjali Pandit

Performers:Charulata In Rags: Rashi AgrawalFairy God Mother: Sneha Dama

Mice Dancers: Anushka OakShivangi DixitRiya SolankiAmna SaleemAditi KulkarniDivya SeernaniSwati Kundra Zoya Virani

Kahaar (Doli Carriers) Tanya HussainJahnanvi MittalShivani BindalRachita MurthyChandini JaggiMohini BindalUrvashi MathurEsha Chakrabarti

Commentary in English: Tasha Agrawal and Shivani Mukhi

INTERVAL

Commentary In English: Tara Narang and Anisha Mathur

Joy Dance Performers:Riya SanghiNandeeta Patel Trisha GuptePatrika LadSarina Patel

Anushka ChaudhryJenna DewjiNeeshali OdhavAshna DhingraAnnika TanwaniRoshni ChanwaniAnika RamchandraEeshita Bavare Natasha PiraniSabrina PiraniSanika PhanseMeghan DesaiAmisha PatelMeera RuxmohanAnjali PatelPriyanka GandhiShruti Agarwal

Commentary: Eesha Kundra and Madhvi Seernani

ACT 2 SCENE 1Tabla Performers: Shyam PopatRahul PatelArjun MerchantAnurag DasShomik VermaAnkit Shah Hiresh TaylorKunal Taylor

Dholak Players: Aaron VargheseAnant LalSunil MotwaniRajni Agrawal

Performers:Charulata the Princess: Ashka ContractorStep-sister Rekha: Shipra AgrawalStep-sister Megha: Arti KundalumStep Mother: Shivani MurarkaPrince: Shreya RuxmohanRani: Saniya ChaudhryRaja: Saloni ModiCourt Dancers: Shreeya Popat, Payal Sandhane, Karuna Antani, Shivani Mukhi, Monika Rao Surina Odhav, Natasha Jain, Neha Abassi, Tasha AgrawalFan Holders: Shivani Bindal, Chandini Jaggi, Guards Esha Chakrabarti, Tanya HussainNat: Sonya ChanchlaniNatti: Megan Rao

Commentary In English: - Tarika Nath and Mishi Jain

ACT 2 SCENE 2Tabla Performers:Akhil PandyaShomik VermaSiddharth SatishShivam PatelAnkit ShahAnkush Agrawal Mohit NagraniHiresh TaylorMayank PhanseShilpa PhanseShyam PopatRahul Patel

Dholak Performers: Anant LalAaron VargheseRajni AgrawalVibha Agrawal

Dance Performers: Prince: Shreya RuxmohanStep mother: Shivani MurarkaStep-sister Rekha: Arti KundalumStep-sister Megha: Shipra AgrawalNat: Sonya ChanchlaniNatti: Meghan RaoMessengers: Sonal Agrawal, Lipika Grover, Pooja PatelPerformers playing the Unmarried Girls trying the shoe: Anuja Vij, Surina Odhav, Arushi Khanna, Nadia Sheikh, Natasha Jain, Shilpi Agrawal, Bhakti Pandya, Shivani Mukhi, Shreeya Popat, Karuna Antani

English Commentary: Anushka Oak, Shivangi Dixit

Wedding Dance: Shreeya PopatPayal SandhaneKaruna AntaniShivani Mukhi Monika RaoSurina OdhavNatasha JainNeha AbassiBhakti PandyaTasha AgrawalaMonika RaoMegan Rao Sonya Chanchlani

Dancers in the Aisle:Tarika NathMishi JainAmita BatraMaya SeernaniMadhvi Seernani Anisha MathurEesha KundraTara Narang

Mice Dancers at the base of the stage:Anushka OakShivangi DixitRiya SolankiAmna SaleemAditi KulkarniDivya SeernaniSwati KundraZoya Virani

Conclusion Speech: Shravya Chilkapati and Aarushi Khanna

THE END

They say that art beings one closer to God. This is very true

in my life as an artist and a teacher. The concept, ideas, and

creative aspects of Charulata came to me quite like a spiri-

tual experience. For me to actually explain this very special

experience is diffi cult to put in words. All I can say is that this

endeavor is a product of my passion for arts and blessing from

my Gurus and God.

The root of it all goes back to my upbringing …the amazing

exposure in the world of arts that I was very fortunate to have

had. I still vividly recall my fi rst baby steps in this fi eld….the day my grandmother asked me

to sit by her side and observe a dance class which she herself was conducting. I remember,

even at the age 4 or 5, watching very carefully the nuances and details of the sacred art…

the art of imparting knowledge. The art of being a teacher. I owe that amazing skill to my

primary and most adorable Guru …my grand mother, Mrs. Shanti Sahai ‘Nalini’. Grow-

ing under the shadow of such a talented lady was truly a blessing. Apart from being a

successful teacher in the fi eld of performing arts like Music, Dance, Dholak and Tabla,

my grandmother has also made an amazing mark in literary fi elds. Her poetic talent is

well known and her work as a writer has taken shape through many publications. Her

celebrity still continues and looks like age does not pose any barrier or threat to the

artist in her. Even at 90 she continues to be a leader in the community and is currently

still a president of “Lucknow Women’s Association’ which is an organization which not

only does community service but also works towards preserving our traditions and

culture. I can go on and on about her…. rarely have I come across someone who stands

for our rich Indian culture and tirelessly works towards making this world a better

place through her knowledge. In paying my tribute to her all I want to say is “Ammaji…

thank you for being in my life”.

While talking about my upbringing, I must mention the love and the encouragement I

received from my parents. Both my father and mother are great appreciators of arts be-

sides being artists themselves. All possible opportunities were provided to me so that my

environment was conducive to learning. It’s wonderful to see the pride in their eyes as they see their daughter trying to promote arts and culture in

a foreign land. I owe all my shows to my parents …..without their support this massive endeavor would not have been possible. I just want to thank

them with the bottom of my heart for helping my dreams come true.

Every girl dreams of getting married to an ‘ideal’ man who supports unconditionally …a person who can be relied on in all spheres of one’s life. I

just want to say that I am blessed to have such a person as my husband. This is my 14th year of being married and I feel that there are no words to

express gratitude towards my husband for being there for me. Being married to him also brought in my life the added love and support of my father

and mother in-law. I can feel the power of their blessings even from India. My children Tarika and Anchit are also to be acknowledged for their pa-

tience and love. These are two children who realize what their mother is doing in the community and are learning about the sacrifi ce of family time

with projects like Charulata. May God give them the best life ever…and me some time to compensate for the endless hours taken away from them.

When destiny brings a student in front of me…irrespective of age or personality type, I simply fi nd it intuitive to develop an emotional connection

before imparting any knowledge. It has been my fi rm belief that, in the fi eld of arts, the learning process truly needs to come from the heart. I adore

every student who comes before me and am blessed to have such pure love, regard and commitment in return.

As you fl ip through the pages of this magazine, you will see photographs of our upcoming artists. Each and every one of them bring to this produc-

tion their unique skill, their energy, their enthusiasm, and their love for their art. Helping them blossom into artists has been my privilege and a

journey that I enjoyed tremendously.

Foreword from Mrs. Shiva Mathur

o6

The making ofI love to experiment with different themes…specially those which have a universal appeal. To be able to bring a variety of performing arts in a collective display through dance-dramas is something extremely challenging yet very gratifying. Creative projects such as Charulata provide my students with a higher motivation to learn than merely attending classes and learning in the traditional manner.

The idea of expressing in a dance-drama form a storyline that has universal appeal has been my dream for years. Having a set of students ready (in terms of their learning curve) to showcase their talents was the other set of the equation. After many years of training, fi nally in 2007 I felt that we were ready with my students of dance, dholak, and tabla being all the appropriate skill level. The time was right to give expression to my dream.

The journey to Charulata began with a vision, and lots of creative ideas. It is amazing how I feel enriched both artistically and creatively, each time I embark upon a project showcasing the talents of my students. I knew how I wanted to treat the story and express it with Indian culture and art. The fi rst step, and the one thing that took the longest, was to create the beautiful prose (kavits) in the script of Charulata. Credit for the script goes to my grandmother who is a literary genius. She had the challenge of balancing complexity of the Hindi language with the fact that this story was being put in front of an audience most of whom had English as their fi rst language. And there was the additional requirement of doing the story in a way that would blend the percussion and dance performers.

Music for Charulata was a journey by itself. Many of the songs were composed by talented artists from the Bhatkhande Insti-tute in Lucknow. We then hired professional singers, sitar artists, tabla players and others and professionally recorded the songs in a studio. This experience was all the more challenging given that I was in India for barely 10 days with my family remaining back in Houston. Those were long and intense days!

Closely linked with the script is the business of speaking the script. This is, by no means, an easy endeavor since it needs to be done on the ‘meter’ and in tandem with the dancers on the stage. Rising to the challenge were Mrs. Mini Kumar, Mrs. Geeta Mathur, and Mr. Shailendra Endley all of whom have taken many hours from their busy schedule to practice and rehearse with the students.

Bringing out the emotions in the script is a very important as-pect that I have tried hard to do. Here I was lucky and privileged to have the support of three very prominent artists of Houston. Mrs. Priti Parikh a very highly accomplished Sitar player, Mrs. Mithuya Choudhary a wonderful vocal artist, and Mrs. Anjali Pandit a prominent classical singer gave their time and agreed to help the students. These artists did this in a selfl ess manner for the promotion of our art and culture and with no expectations in return – for that I am grateful to them.

The costume of a dancer is a very important aspect in a perfor-mance. For Charulata the types of costumes and the number of costumes needed was daunting. From mice to the Princess, to the Fairy godmother, every costume had specifi c requirements and was painstakingly selected from shops specializing in this aspect in the narrow streets of Old Delhi. And then there was the ordeal of getting them over to Houston. I think for a while I kept a lot of shipping companies in India very busy as boxes upon boxes were shipped across the oceans. Today as you see Charu-lata, I am sure the effect of the costumes will come through and make an impact.

I would like to make a special mention about the props. These were all constructed by a very special person, Mr. Pramod Mathur, whose love for art is as great as his skills in carpentry. Pramod ji, a long time supporter of my school, has painstakingly constructed each and every thing you see on the stage including the house of Charulata, the well, the jewelry stand, the balloon stand etc. His challenge was to create lightweight, easily movable (and storable) props that depict the way things were done in India of the past. What he has created is truly wonderful!

o7

of “Charulata”Regularity and commitment is not just important, it is essential in the fi eld of performing arts. One of the most challenging things I face as a teacher is to help my students do regular “riyaz” or practice so that they are able to keep their skills sharp. As a student in India I was able to take lessons almost daily and had a strict regimen of practice. My students, on the other hand, have only a once-a-week class given their various other commitments. It is, therefore, more challenging to maintain the interest and keep the pace of learning at an accept-able level. I, as a teacher, have had to adapt and set expectations accordingly. We all have so many commitments to meet in today’s hectic world that even once-a-week attendance becomes an issue to deal with. With a production as huge as Charu-lata, involving more than 120 students, I often had the challenge of dealing with students who were unable to keep to their time commitment often because of genuine reasons. This was, perhaps, my greatest hurdle. Even so, I have always had a lot of appreciation towards the parents for making the effort to expose their child to art and culture.

In closing I would like to say that with each show, God seems to be giving me the strength and skills to conquer the fear of the unknown. I am deeply thankful to the many people who have helped my school in this endeavor - as sponsors, as creative artists, as backstage helpers, and as the many well-wishers and promoters of culture. The making of Charulata has been a very exclusive journey for me and my students – one that we will always remember!

o8

Kathak is among the six major classical dances of India and one of the most dynamic

theater arts in the world. The word Kathak is derived from katha, meaning “the art of storytelling.” With dance and music these storytellers of ancient India would bring to life the great scriptures and epics.

In this performance we are staging the following aspects of Kathak:

Nritta (pure dance technique): • Tukda’s which are precise hand and foot movements on a particular rhythm;

Chakkars which are turns; Bols, which are a recitation of the language of the dance

Nritya (dance with rhythm and expression):• Use of interpretive gestures, expression, and rendering of tradtional songs and poems.

Natya (drama): • The art of storytelling.

The invaluable contribution of the Dholak and Tabla is to provide the precision and the beat for the different Bhav

(expression) aspects in Charulata. The percussion in-struments also provide background rhythm to sup-

port the display of several scenes. For example, the Deepchandi taal of 14 beats was used

to show the exit of the ‘doli’ car-rying Charulata. Dramatic Tabla beats called the Rela were used to show the scene in which Charulata realizes it is midnight and runs from the ball. When the Prince and the Rajdoots

(messengers) come to test the fi tting of the slipper, the Chaar taal of

12 beats was used for impact. Teen Taal Kathak tukdas are used by the nut-nutty (storytellers) to provide more fl avor to

their act. Keherva was used to provide rhythm for several of the kavits.

At Shivangini Classes the main emphasis is to teach technical aspects of dance and percussion instruments using methods that engage the interest of students even though they are learning in an environment that is very different from that in India.

theater arts in the world. The word Kameaning “the art of storytelling.” Witstorytellers of ancient India would brand epics.

In this performance we are staging Kathak:

Nritta (pure dance tec•precise hand and foot moveme

Chakkars which are turns; Bothe language of the dance

Nritya (dance with rhy•Use of interpretive gestureof tradtional songs and poe

Natya (drama): • The ar

The invaluable contributionprovide the precision and th

(expression) aspects in Chstruments also provid

port the display ofthe Deepchan

to s

(mfi tting of

12 beats was used for impact. Teused by the nut-nutty (storyteller

their act. Keherva was used to prothe kavits.

At Shivangini Classes the main emphaaspects of dance and percussion instrengage the interest of students evenan environment that is very differen

the six major classical dances nd one of the most dynamic

is among tof India an

Technical Aspects

o9

ts of “Charulata”

o10

Speakers of Charulata

S H A I L E N D R A

A I N D L E Y

M I N I K U M A R

M R S . G E E T A

M A T H U R

o11

Guest Artists in Charulata

P R I T I P A R I K H

A N J A L I P U N D I T

M I T H U Y A

C H O U D H A R Y

o12

The main cast ofC H A R U L ATA A S P R I N C E S S

Being a part of Shiva Auntie’s dance school has opened up a whole new world of dance for me. Hav-ing a role in Charulatha has been an amazing experience and i am truly thankful to Shiva Auntie.

Ashka Contractor

Shiva aunty has been a teacher, friend, guide, and most of all a true inspiration. Although I joined only a few years ago, my passion for Kathak and my utmost respect for Aunty continued to grow. Hard work, dedication, and determina-tion are just some of the many amazing qualities that Shiva aunty has passed to me. She never gave up and perse-vered through the toughest times. I hope that Shiva aunty continues to teach and pass on her talent to all of the future generations. She has been the greatest role model and one of the qualities that I admire the most in her is the perseverance and determination she has towards Kathak. I hope to follow in her footsteps. Thank you aunty for eveything you have given all of us “youngsters.” We love you and hope for the best! I will miss you and will defi netly continue to dance for many more years to come.

S T E P S I S T E R M E G H A

Arti Kandalam

K I N G

I am the king who’s desires are to get his married to a beautiful bride. He is cares about his fellow citizens and tries to help them out. At the ball he really likes Char-ulata and wants to make her his daughter in law. I have always loved dancing and I think I am very much suited for this role.

Saloni Modi

P R I N C E

It was six years ago that I became a part of the Shivangini School of Dance. Since then, I have matured, not only in my dancing ability, but also in the way I conduct myself. Shiva Aunty has given me the greatest gift of all, the gift of Art, and it is because of this that I am the confi dent and goal-oriented person I am today. But one thing that hasn’t changed throughout my experiences with Shiva Aunty is her patience. Thank you, Shiva Aunty, for believing in me and giving me this won-derful opportunity to be a part of the main cast. This is something that I will never forget, and I am going to miss every moment of it (and you) when I’m off to college next year.

Shreya Ruxmohan

F A I RY G O D M OT H E R

I play the role of the Fairy God Mother or “ Pari” in Charulata. I am basically an angel com-ing down from heaven to make Charulata’s dreams come true. I think my role as a Pari is a turning point in Charulata’s life. I change Charulata in rags into Charulata , the princess, with all my magical powers and spells. This role was actually a fun experience for me. I got to learn many new tukdas and todas and got to dance them on a high level speed. I am glad that I was going to play the role of the Fairy God Mother for dance drama Charulata. The experience of being in this role is one which I will never forget.

Sneha Dama

o13

of “Charulata”Shivani Murarka

S T E P M OT H E R

N AT T A N D N AT T I PA I R 1

Dance has always been a passion for me. At the age of seven I joined Shiva Aunty’s classes and was immediately drawn to her awe-some teaching style and the friendly atmosphere. Throughout these 5 years, I have had lots of fun with all of my friends and shiva aunty in our class...and I will never forget! I have learned SOOOOOO much from shiva aunty, not just dance, but other things that will help me in life too. The best thing about shiva aunty is that she is very understanding and loving. WE LOVE U SHIVA AUNTY!!!!!!!!!!!! -Karuna Antani, 13

Before taking Kathak classes, Indian dance simply appeared as something actresses did while skimpily dressed in Bollywood mov-ies. However, Kathak showed me that dance can be classical and challenging with its complicated mudras, elaborate footwork, and elegant movement of the body as a whole. Shiva Auntie gave me the grace and poise learn Kathak and appreciate its contribution to my life as an American student. -Shreeya Popat, 16

Karuna Antani Shreeya Popat

C H A R U L ATA I N R A G S

It was May of 2004 when I was fi rst introduced to the sunroom and this new style of dance. Like with most new things, I was hesitant at fi rst, and even reluctant to put myself through something so differ-ent and unfamiliar, but it was only a matter of minutes when my atti-tude would completely change. Now, four years later, I live for those hours when I can go back to the sunroom to dance, to laugh, to talk, and to just learn whatever I can that day. Dance has evolved into something much more than just random steps that follow one an-other, but it has become part of my soul and my passion that I hope never to sacrifi ce, and for all this I can only thank my teacher, Shiva Auntie. She has blessed me with countless opportunities to perform and countless rehearsals to practice, but perhaps the greatest gift she has given me is her time and her faith. I dedicate every second of this show to her, and hope one day I will be able to inspire just one person the same way she has inspired us all. This one is for you, Shiva Auntie, and for all those hurdles you have had to jump in order to get me here, thank you.

Rashi Agrawal

Four years and fi ve months ago, I nervously opened the glass door to Shiva Auntie’s sunroom as timid and introverted as ever. Just ten minutes later I was displaying the dance I had prepared: a typical, Bollywood-style, slightly-less-than-classy number to a popular remix of “Kaliyon ka Chaman.” Although dancing usually lifted my spirits, I walked out of the sunroom that day feeling incomplete. Fortunately, that was the only day I left Auntie’s presence so dejected and lacking. Kathak was the missing piece. It has far transcended infl uencing just my grace and posture. Shiva Auntie’s classes have enhanced my confi dence, sharpened my interpersonal skills with people of all ages, and embed-ded in me such necessary qualities as prioritization, perseverance and patience. Due to Auntie’s individual and engaging style of teaching Kathak has become my passion and the chan-nel through which I can best express myself. I cannot thank her enough for blessing me with this knowledge, these experiences, and this love.

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The main cast ofQ U E E N

Shivangini School of Dance has shaped me into the person I am today. Learning Kathak from Shiva Aunty has been a great experience, and I look up to her very much. Whenever I attend classes or re-hearsals, I feel as if I am even more con-nected with my country and culture, and hope to preserve it. The hard work and dedication demonstrated by Shiva Aunty is unforgettable, and I hope to learn the most from her. Kathak has changed my life, and I would not stop for the world. This one is for you, Shiva Aunty!

Saniya Chaudhari

R A J D O OT S

I love dance class because Shiva Aunty teaches it. I have lots of fun learning from Shiva Aunty. Her methods for teaching are very good. I am glad that I joined Shiva Aunty’s class, because now I love dancing! Shiva Aunty’s idea for Charulata was brilliant. I love the whole prospect of Shiva Aunty making Cinderalla into an Indian dance drama. Every from the dresses to the dancing and percussion is amazing. Too many of her students, Kathak is the only connection they have to their culture and heritage. -Puja Patel

Dance with Shiva Aunty has been an inspiring experience for me. Not only did i learn about dance its self, but also the meanings of why we dance. Having this opportunity to learn dance from a very experienced, talented teacher has been a once in a life time experience. From the late night rehearsals to the early Saturday classes we have all be-come close. Charulatta is my fi rst dance drama, well not exactly. In Shakuntala I played the most important role... the curtain opener. From behind the curtains to one of the main cast members it has just been a wonderful experience. Thanks Shiva Aunty! - Sonal Agrawal

Kathak is a wonderful art that I have had the privilege to learn from Shiva Aunty for about 3 years. Through her dedication and efforts, she has taught meb along with 160 other studentsb the art of dance and expression. Although Charulata has required much time and countless rehearsals, I truly appreciate all the hard work put in from Shiva Aunty, and I know this will be an experience to remember for life. - Lipika Grover

Lipika Grover, Sonal, Puja Patel

T H E D A N C E R S - G r o u p 1

Back Row (L to R): Karuna Antani, Natasha Jain, Shivani Mukhi, Surina Odhav

Front Row (L to R):Sonia Chanchlani, Bhakti Pandya, Monica Rao, Megan Rao, Shreeya Popat

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f “Charulata”...cont’d

N AT T A N D N AT T I PA I R 2

“I really love to dance, and with Shiva Aunty’s help I have been able to improve my skills while truly enjoying myself. I don’t know what I’d do without dance.” -Meghan Rao “It is an honor to have such a talented teacher in the United States and getting the opportunity of learning from her has been a great experience. Shiva Aunty doesn’t make me miss India as much.” -Sonya Chanchlani

Meghan Rao, Sonya Chanchlani

Shiva auntie has taught me about my culture through dance

and has made me graceful and artistic.

Natasha Jain

Dance has been my savior, quiet literally. Six years ago, when I fi rst started dancing with Shiva aunty, I

was a quiet, shy little girl with a tremendous amount of stage fright. Today I stand before you as a more accom-plished dancer than I could have ever imagined. The change in my confi dence is particularly note worthy, as is grace that has found its way into my life. I stopped dancing for six months when I moved away to attend Texas A&M University and quickly realized that there was something missing from my life. I have returned to dance with my heart and soul and plan to keep it

integrated in my life regardless of where I go.

Bhakti Pandya, 20 S T E P S I S T E R R E K H A

Shipra Agrawal has been doing Kath-ak with Shiva Mathur for four years. She enjoys many styles of dancing ranging from Classical Kathak to Bollywood music. As well as dancing, she participates in sports such as soccer and tennis. She is currently a junior at St. Thomas Episcopal School. Her parents are Govind and Renu Agrawal.

Shipra Agrawal

T H E D A N C E R S - - G r o u p 2

L to R: Payal Sandhane, Aarushi Khanna, Tasha Agrawal, Anuja Vij, Neha Abassi

Shiva Aunty’s classes have been more than just dance,

Shiva Aunty has been a very positive infl uence in my life.

Shivani Mukhi

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ass Photos Class PhotosClass Phot

L to R: Rachita Murthy, Urvashi Mathur, Chandini Jaggi, Jahnavee Mittal

Back Row (L to R): Ria Murthy, Neha Bhandari, Manushee Vatani

Front Row (L to R): Segal Gupte, Jilmil Das, Pranavi Gupta, Reeti Mangal

Payals(Silver Anklets)1st - 3rd Year Students

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otos Class Photos Class Photos C

Back Row (L to R): Eshna Parikh, Bianca Chandwani, Zoya Saxena,

Anika Saharia, Ruchika Dongre, Sonali Shah

Front Row (L to R): Avani Veeriseety, Shreya Dhutia,

Janvi Thakkar, Dia Patel, Urvi Sakhuja

Back Row (L to R): Sarika Shetty, Anjana Rajkumar, Anushka Kale,

Neha Gupta, Kajal Krishen

Front Row (L to R): Aarushi Agarwal, Pooja Gupta, Anshia Ramesh,

Shriya Sinha, Kareena Krishan

Back Row (L to R): Trisha Gupte, Shruti Agrawal, Patrika Lad, Priyanka Gandhi

Front Row (L to R): Sarina Patel, Riya Sanghvi,

Esheeta Bavare, Jenna Dewji

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ass Photo Class PhotoClass PhotoKangana

(Gold Bracelet)3rd - 5th Year Students

Back Row (L to R): Natasha Pirani, Sabreena Pirani, Amisha Patel, Meghan Desai

Front Row (L to R): Meera Ruxmohan, Anjali Patel, Sanika Phanse

Back Row (L to R): Shivangi Dixit, Divya Seernani, Aditi Kulkarni, Anushka Oak

Front Row (L to R): Riya Solanki, Zoya Virani, Amna Salim, Swati Kundra

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Back Row (L to R): Puja Patel, Roshni Chandwani, Anika Ramchand,

Ashana Dhingra, Anika Tanwani

Front Row (L to R): Neeshali Odhav, Nandeeta Patel,

Shruthi Avantsa, Anisha Choudhry

Back Row (L to R): Shivani Mukhi, Natasha Jain, Sneha Dama

Front Row (L to R): Monica Rao, Megan Rao

o Class Photo Class Photo Class

Pushp haar(Garland of flowers)5th - 8th Year Students

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ass Photos Class PhotosClass Phot

Back Row (L to R): Mohit Nagrani, Ankush Agrawal, Somik Verma

Front Row (L to R): Shivam Patel, Mayank Phanse, Siddarth Satish

Back Row (L to R): Amita Batra, Madhvi Seernani, Maya Seernani, Tara Narang

Front Row (L to R): Eesha Kundra, Mishi Jain, Tarika Nath, Anisha Mathur

Taal Gurus3rd - 5th Year Students

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otos Class Photos Class Photos C

Back Row (L to R): Rahul Patel, Hiresh Taylor, Akhil Pandya

Front Row (L to R): Shyam Popat, Kunal Taylor

L to R: Arjun Merchant, Ankit Shah, Yash Tarkunde

5th Year Tabla Students

4th Year Tabla Students

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We love to take dance classes at Shivangini school. Shiva aunty makes it so much fun. Thank you Shiva aunty - Sejal 6, Pranavi Gupta 4

What I like about Shiva Auntie’s class is that we get to per-form on new themes and dances every year. Shiva Auntie is very nice and teaches us very gracefully.I think Charulata will go very well and everybody will dance with the right steps - Aditi Kulkarni, 8

I’ve been learning dance at Shiva aunty’s classes for 4 years. And I am proud to say that she is the best teacher. I love to be a part of her “Charulata” production and I am really excited for my Mice dance. This is the fi rst time for me to be a part of big play on stage. Thank you Shiva aunty for all your teachings - Shivangi Dixit, 8

Being in Charulata even in a small way has helped me a lot. I’ve learnt to work in coordination with others and also seen the work involved in putting a performance together. Shiva aunty has taught me discipline and patience along with the art of dancing and I hope to continue to grow in that respect. Thanks for making me a part of the show - Anuja

I have been with Shiva Aunty for 8 months. She teaches us “Kathak”- a classical Indian dance in a way that is fun. She has taught me to appreciate all kinds of art, and be proud of our rich heritage. Thank you, Shiva Aunty!! - Anika Saharia, 7

Being in Shivangini classes has been quite an experience. I hap-pily moved up a class even though I’m new, and it’s been nice ever since. I’m enjoying being in Charulata so far, and hope it will be a great success - Urvashi Mathur, 12

I have been to Shiva aunty for about 2 years ever since I have tried not to miss a class. It feels like it is an honor to be in Charulata - Jhanavi, 10

This is my fi rst year in Kathak. I enjoy Kathak and also love the way Shiva auntie teaches me. I am having fun in being part of Charulata - Eshna Parikh, 8 I enjoy the Shivangini tabla classes because it allows me to ex-perience a part of my culture that many will not get a chance to experience. I treasure every moment of my life I spent studying this art in the past 7 years - Akhil Pandya, 15

Whenever I go to Shiva auntie’s class, I can forget about the world and can really express myself and focus on dancing. This makes me very happy - Shreya Dhutia, 7

I have been learning dance from Shiva aunty for 1 year. It is a lot of fun and I really enjoy it. I am very excited about partici-pating in the Yashomati Mayya dance - Zoya Saxena, 8 I have been learning tabla for a couple of years from Shiva auntie. My most enjoyable experiences have been the three shows we’ve done: Aashirvad, Charulata, and Shakuntala - Rahul Patel, 15

I love learning dance from Shiva auntie. She is the best teacher in the whole world - Reeti, 6

If Charulata wasn’t written, I would have never got to show, how my Indian culture expresses itself - Riya Solanki, 8

I started learning Kathak dance with Shiva Aunty when I was 7 years old. Shiva aunty is a very good dance teacher and she wants us to do perfect dance steps. She is very loving, sweet, and nice. I love Shiva aunty and all my friends in my group - Urvi, 6

I have had a great experience of dancing with Shiva aunty. It is a pleasure to participate in a dance taught by her. I am very excited about performing in Charulata - Sonali Shah, 8

Dancing makes my heart jump for joy! I look forward to my dance class because of my awesome friends and amazing Ms. Shiva Ji - Zoya Virani, 8

I love to dance. Ms. Shiva brings out the best in me. GO....Ms Shiva ! - Anushka Oak, 8

I love dancing, and being part of Charulata has given me a lot of confi dence - Neha Bhandari, 7

I am 11 years old and have been coming here for the past 7 years. I have enjoyed working in Charulata and in the previous shows. I have been having a blast in the Shivangini classes and always will! Thank you! - Maya Seernani, 11

I have been in Shivangi school for 7 years!!!!! I have had fun working in Charulata and the previous show we had. I have also enjoyed learning Kathak in Shiva aunty’s classes - Madhavi Seernani, 11

I have been learning KATHAK DANCE from aunty Shiva for the last 5 years. I enjoy dancing a lot, it gives me a lot of pride because it allows me to learn about my culture. I hope that I can make my guru Shiva aunty proud of me - Divya P. Seernani, 9

ove to take dance classes at Shivangini school. Shiva aunty We loh f Th k Shk S l 6 P

I have been learning dance from Shiva aunty for 1 year. It is a l f f d I ll I d b

What our students have to say...

o23

Martha Graham once said “Dance is the hidden language of the soul.” If that is true, then you, Shiva aunty, have awakened our souls - Ambika and Sarika Shetty

Even though I am Shiva aunty’s daughter, she still treats me like everyone else. I have learned a lot from my Mom and I am willing to continue it for the rest of my life. I love you Mommy! - Tarika, 10

Shiva aunty makes us do a lot of dance moves, but it will payoff because people will enjoy it. I enjoy it too - Ruchika, 6

I’ve been in Shiva aunty’s class for about 4 years now and I fi nd that going there is very special. It gives me a good feeling inside! It feels very good to be a part of her production and a part of her school. I loved working in the journey of Charulata and will always remember this very important aspect of my life! Thank-you Shiva aunty!! - Amita Batra, 12

I have been learning Dance in Shivangini school for last 6 years. Two years ago I took part in “Shakuntala” and now I am so happy to be part of Charulata. Thank you so much Shiva aunty for teaching me- Eesha Kundra

I have had fun working in Charulata and the previous show I enjoy learning Kathak in Shiva aunty’s classes. My Experience in Shivangini classes through out the last 5 years has been a great learning of classical Kathak dancing. I am thankful to Shiva aunty for teaching me many things. I have enjoyed this journey and I will continue it. Thank you Shiva Aunty! - Mishi Jain, 12

Shiva aunty is a nice, caring, and generous person. My experi-ence at her school has taught me everything from basic steps to India’s history - Tara Narang, 13

The traditional Indian dance I have taken with Shiva Aunty has helped me get selected for the school dance team, and has helped me be a better performer, and a graceful one - Anisha Mathur, 13

I started learning dance from Shiva aunty at the age of 3. It has been 4 years since then. I have learned a lot about Indian culture. I had enjoyed my role as a peacock in Shankuntala and cannot wait to perform as one of the Charulata mice. Shiva aunty Thank you for being a good teacher - Swati Kundra, 8

Shiva aunty has been teaching me the beauty of art thru Kathak. I enjoy dancing and have learnt to appreciate art thru my learning’s from Shiva aunty. Thank you Shiva aunty! - Bianca Chandwani, 8

I like tabla class because it is an interesting art to learn - Shivam Patel, 8 I have been learning tabla from Shiva Aunty since last 3 years. I feel proud and close to my culture and above all feel that tabla has helped me understand the rhythm in any kind of music. Shiva aunty teaches us with so much enthusiasm that makes me feel like learning more and more. I really enjoy my every moment when I am learning my new taals or playing taals which I have learned so far. I am very happy that I am going to be part of percussion group in this wonderfully choreographed dance drama “Charulata” - Mayank Phanse, 11

I have been learning tabla for fi ve years from Shiva aunty. It took a few years for me to appreciate the art, but now I am really enjoying tabla. Through tabla I have learnt to appreciate and value our Indian music and above all our rich and diversi-fi ed culture. I am truly enjoying the “Charulata” experience and am very proud to be a part of it! - Mohit Nagrani, 11 I have been learning Tabla from Shiva aunty for about three years now. I really love playing Tabla and eagerly wait for the lessons. Shiva aunty is a very enthusiastic teacher. I am really excited that I will be playing onstage for “Charulata” - Shomik Verma, 11

I have been learning Tabla from Shiva aunty the past three years, I think that I am fortunate to have a guru like her and I enjoy playing it and I love music - Siddarth Satish, 9

I would like to take this opportunity and say thank you to Shiva aunty for providing me the opportunity of being a stu-dent of Shivangini school. I have learned a lot from Shiva aunty and I am looking forward to advancing more in her school - Amna Saleem, 8

Shiva Aunty makes dance class FUN and AWESOME! Hope you enjoy Charulata - Meghan, 9 Shiva aunty is the best teacher and teaches the best dance - Amisha, 9

My name is Sanika and I learn dance. To be more precise I learn a dance style called Kathak. I like to learn this style of dance because of many reasons; one reason is because it teaches me more about my culture and homeland, India. Another reason is because it is fun, and also refreshes my mind but above all I like the way Shiva aunty teaches us the bhav (expressions) with mudra (hand gestures) and footsteps. I am amazed to see how Shiva aunty does everything so orderly and teaches things step by step - Sanika, 8

I have been learning dance for a long time but still feel as if I have to learn more and more, I enjoy my dancing and hope everybody will enjoy our wonderfully choreographed show - Sanika Phanse

Shiva Aunty is very special because she makes everything excit-ing and she brings out the good in me. She teaches us how to dance with LOVE AND SUPPORT!! - Meera, 8 I like dance class because I get to learn something new! I also like dance class it’s a new style of dancing - Anjali, 8 Shiva aunty’s dance class helps build my confi dence to perform on stage - Natasha, 14 Dance class makes me feel happy when I dance, and helps me learn about learn about Indian culture - Sabrina, 12 Being in Shivangini classes has been quite an experience. I hap-pily moved up a class even though I’m new, and it’s been nice ever since. I’m enjoying being in Charulata so far, and hope it will be a great success - Urvashi Mathur, 12

I have being learning Kathak since last 1 year from Shiva aunty. I love the way teaches the dance and makes it fun to learn. Thank you Shiva Aunty - Janvi Thakkar, 6

o24

I like to dance because I learn the meanings and actions to the songs. Kathak dance is one of my favorite things to do after school. I also get to learn more about my Indian culture. I like all the moves which we learn for the hands, footwork and facial expressions. Shiva Auntie is a great teacher and she makes danc-ing fun. I want to dance forever. Learning dance has given me a lot more confi dence and now I love to dance in shows - Patrika Jade Lad, 9

I have been in Mrs. Shiva’s dance class for 3 years but I feel like I’ve only been in dance classes for 1 year!!!! I am 9 years old and am in 3rd. I think dance class is fun, exciting, cool, awesome, ex-hilarating and I know that dance class makes me very, very ener-getic. THANK YOU Mrs. Shiva for teaching us Kathak dancing!!!! I love being in your class and I enjoy dancing. I cannot wait until my one year old baby sister takes your class and dances with me. Good luck to our class - Sarina Patel, 9

I have been learning dance for 2 years. I like to dance because Ms Shiva is my favorite dance teacher and I like Kathak move-ments. I like making new friends at dance class. I also like the way Ms Shiva explains all the dance movements and the songs. I love the ghagara choli’s she picks out for the dance. Thank you Shiva aunty for teaching me these amazing dance movements - Riya Sanghi, 8

I like Shivangini classes because it is fun. We get to learn ‘mu-dras’ and different types of dances. Plus, Shiva aunty is really nice to us. We get to dance to cool music. Charulata was a great experience and I will never forget it - Trisha Gupte, 10

I love dance. It is really fun. Shiva aunty is really nice. I love per-forming. Kathak rocks - Esheeta Bavare, 9

I have been in Shiva Aunty’s class for 3 years. I am always up and ready to go to her classes. Shiva Aunty is a kind, caring and lov-ing teacher. I am lucky to have her as my teacher. I LOVE YOU SHIVA AUNTY - Priyanka Gandhi, 11

I like Indian dancing and I have been in Shiva Aunty’s class for nearly three years - I enjoy it; I didn’t take part in Shakuntala last time because I hurt my ankle but I am excited about Charu-lata - Jenna Dewji, 9

I have been learning dance from Shivangini classes for less than a year now, but already it has impacted me greatly. The rehears-als for Charulata showed me that dedication was key. By coop-erating with the other girls, I made new friends and got closer to ones I previously knew. Overall, Charulata has strengthened my love for dance and has been a wonderful opportunity that I hope I can experience again - Arushi Khanna, 15

We love going to Shiva Auntie’s dance class as she teaches us the importance of and helps us connect with our Indian culture. Shiva Aunty has taught us to be graceful and artistic and is teaching us the importance of expressing ourselves through dance. Shiva Aunty makes learning Kathak fun and we look forward to her class every week

We love Shivangini Classes because of the many talents incor-porated in this program. The classes are fun because Shiva aunty understands us and helps us improve and perfect our tabla playing skills. In the past four years, she has brought us from beginners to performing artists. We thank Shiva Aunty for all her hard work - Arjun, Ankit, Yash

Dance and music have always been important to me, but it was only when I started learning dance from Shiva aunty that the two fi nally came together. Shiva aunty is a wonderful teacher who makes learning Kathak fun and has made me a more con-fi dent and graceful person. Dance has become my passion, and I am always excited to perform on stage. - Surina Odhav, 14

Shiva Aunty is a great teacher and I love the way she teaches. I am happy that I joined her class. I have learned a lot from her and hope to learn even more in the future. - Ashna Dhingra

Shiva Aunty is the best dance teacher ever. I have been learning under her wing for about 4 years, but it feels like I have been learning my whole life. I have lots of fun learning from Shiva Aunty. Her methods for teaching are very good. I am glad that I joined Shiva Aunty’s class, because now I love dancing! With learning from Shiva Aunty, she has made me a more self confi -dent person. By teaching Kathak, Shiva Aunty is able to spread our Indian Heritage. – Puja Patel

I think Shiva Aunti’s lessons are really good because everything she teaches us is really cool and we learn a lot of things that will probably be useful later in life. I hope I can keep on learn-ing everything that she has in mind for us. Shiva Aunti is an awesome teacher and a very kind person!-Nandeeta Patel

Shiva Aunty is an outstanding teacher and she makes Kathak dancing fun. She is very caring and always has a smile on her face. Shiva Aunty has taught me many things and I look forward to her dance class every week. - Anika Tanwani

I love learning kathak dancing, it is fun and exciting. And I am lucky to have a teacher like Shiva Aunti to teach me dance in such a fun way.- Anushka Choudhary

Shiva Aunty makes dancing interesting because she explains the meaning of the whole song to us, who cannot speak Hindi. With every passing year she challenges us more and more, with more diffi cult dance moves. I have enjoyed learning dance at her school. - Shruthi Avantsa

Shiva Aunty is a very caring dance teacher. She has helped build up my self confi dence and she has told me not to give up. I hope I can continue learning Kathak from her. -Anika Ramchand

A few years ago, when I joined Shiva Aunty’s classes, I was so shy that nobody in my class could hear me. After a few dance classes, I was the most outgoing person in my class. I won a spot in Student Council two years in a row. Shiva Aunty’s dance class is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. - Roshni Chandwani

I love learning Kathak from Shiva Auntie. Shiva Auntie makes dancing fun, and also teaches me of our culture through the meaning of songs. When I joined Kathak I was very, very shy; now I am more confi dent and sure of myself. Thank you Shiva Auntie! - Neeshali Odhav

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Sponsor ListShivangini Center for North Indian Performing Arts, and the students of

Shivangini Classes gratefully acknowledge the support from our sponsors and advertisers.

Grand SponsorsNalini & Dr. Virendra Mathur, on behalf of India House

Sushila & Durga Agrawal, on behalf of India House

Platinum SponsorsReema & Kamal Dama

Dr. Asha & Ravi Murthy

Praggya & Pradip Seernani

Sangeeta Saikia & Prasanta Das

Renu & Agrawal

Rajni & Jai Agrawal

Anuja & Naveen Jaggi

Kohinoor Diamonds

Priti & Manoj Krishnan

Silver SponsorsDr. Asha & Farid Virani

Vibha & Dinesh Agrawal

Dr. Sangeetha & Rajendra Agrawal

Seema & Dr. Rakesh Mangal

Other levelsMonica & Vivek Sakhuja

Shweta & Deepak Gandhi

Veena Shetty

Renu Narang

Anjeli Arjunani of Munshi, Arjunani & Company, CPA’s

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Rashi and Ankush,

Seize every opportunity, perform on any stage, and lighten each room with your presence. Whatever path you may choose, keep these special talents that you guys are blessed with, close to you forever. We cannot be more proud!

Love,

Mom, Dad, and Rahul

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Reeti :Reeti : We love you and enjoy

watching you dance!! You are a

wonderful dancer! We are very

proud of all your achievements.

Mommy and Daddy

Dr. Rakesh & Seema Mangal

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With Lots of LovEWith Lots of LovE

ToTo

Rachita and RiyaRachita and Riya

FromFrom

Mom & DadMom & Dad

(Asha & Ravi Murthy)(Asha & Ravi Murthy)

P L A T I N U M S P O N S O R S - P L A T I N U M S P O N S O R S

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With Compliments

and

Best Wishes

from

Pradeep and Pragya Seernani

9428-A Cullen BlvdHouston, Tx 77051

6316 Telephone RdHouston, Tx 77087

1044 Federal RdHouston, Tx 77015

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"My journey with Shivangini Classes …. Age 7 thru age 16”.

I am Sneha Dama. I have been in

Shivangini School of Dance for the past 8

years. It has been a wonderful time. Shiva

Aunty is an excellent and talented teacher.

I feel privileged to be a part of her dance

classes. Shiva Aunty not only teaches the

kathak style of dancing, but also imparts the

Indian values and culture in us, and that is

what’s unique about her. In my perspective, the real fairygod mother is not me,

but Shiva Aunty who makes us so beautiful and elegant. I have learned so many

things that I never knew before. I appreciate Shiva Aunty for her kindness and

hardwork. I have never seen someone take a extravagant dance drama so calmly,

and that's what I admire about her. In my future, I know that dance will be still

remain my passion as it is now. Thanks Shiva Aunty for everything you've done!

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“The important thing is to strive towards a goal

which is not immediately visible.

That goal is not the concern of the mind, but of the spirit.”

-Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, Flight to Arras, 1942,

translated from French by Lewis Galantière

Best Wishes and Congratulations to the Shivangini School of Dance.

We hope all of Shiva Mathur’s pursuits in promoting

Indian culture are successful.

Sponsorship by Govind and Renu Agrawal

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Parent to Student MessagesTara Narang, you have

been dancing since the age of 3. You are a talented and very dedicated dancer. Late Grandma Krishan and Grandma Narang have always been proud of your dancing as well as your parents and brothers. Thank-you, Shiva Mathur for continuing the Love of Dance and Culture in Tara.

Love,

Praveen, Renu, Akash and Shaan.

From Poonam and Bharat Batra( Parents) to

Amita Batra(daughter)...You are a wonderful daughter,

Loving, Caring and Hardworking.You are very special to us and

we are so proud of all your achievements. God Bless you ! !

With best complimentsWith best compliments

fromfrom

Vibha and Dinesh AgrawalVibha and Dinesh Agrawal

Sonal, Sumant and ShrutiSonal, Sumant and Shruti

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Dear Chandni, we have watched you grow

from a beautiful and happy child to a successful young lady.

Your family is very proud of you and

we all wish you the best in the future.

Naveen, Anuja, Akshay and Sachin.Dr. RK and Harshi Jaggi

Dr. Satish and Manju JhingranBobby, Simmi, Maya and Cameron Basra.

Sonu G. JhingranYour extended and loving family and friends.