Kathak Aadi-Kathak is a feature-length documentary based on Guru Roshan Datye’s research into Kathak’s history, linking ancient temple dance poses with those in the Naatyashastra and modern Kathak. Funded by an Infosys Foundation fellowship grant to Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute, the film was completed with crowd-funding and scholarships, receiving special recognition from Smt. Sudha Murthy. The film explores Datye’s 20-year research, involving dancers Abha Auti and Nidhi Kondejkar, as they investigate the historical and cultural connections of Kathak across North Indian temples and stupas.

Credits:

• Writer and Director : Rewa Rawat
• Director of Photography : Anish Phansalkar
• Cast : Guru Roshan Datye, Abha Auti, Nidhi Kondejkar
• Editor : Ajinkya Kulkarni
• Original Background Score : Amod Kulkarni (Magic Notes Studio)
• Creative Consultant : Saumitra Yadnyopavit
• Sound Design : Abhijeet Patwardhan (Swarsaad Studios)
• Costume Design : Aadya Atre
• Dances Light Design : Rohit Pathak
• Illustrations : Madhumita Laddha