There came a point in my Kathak journey when learning no longer felt limited to my own practice. Without realising it, I began absorbing not only what my Guru taught me, but how she taught me. Her passion and devotion goes hand in hand and has shaped the way I listened, observed, and responded to the corrections she had made to me through my learning. I learned that growth in Kathak requires surrender, in other words, letting go of ego and trusting the process, even when it feels demanding or frustrating.
Some lessons I keep close to my heart. Corrections to my posture and eye movement were never just technical adjustments, they trained me to be aware of my body, the way I focus and my intention. Over time, I understood that these details carry mpre than just performance, it carries emotion, discipline and truth. They taught me patience and they reminded me that refinement is a lifelong process no matter what level I may be in.
When I stepped into the role of Kathak instructor, my relationship with Kathak shifted in a way I did not expect. Teaching Kathak made me realise how much responsibility rests on my Guru’s shoulders. Standing in front of students, I became more conscious of my words, my demonstrations, movements and even my silence. I began to understand that every correction shapes not only technique, but confidence too.
Preparing students for their Grade 2 ISTD examinations became a defining moment for me. As I guided them through their work, corrected their mistakes and encouraged them through uncertainty, I heard my Guru in the way I explained things. In that realisation, something changed. I no longer felt like I was simply repeating what I had been taught, but I was carrying it forward with understanding. That was the moment I truly understood my Guru’s patience, her discipline and her strength.
Teaching Kathak also humbled me. It reminded me that learning never ends and that being responsible for others requires presence and compassion. I learned to listen more, to observe carefully and to meet each student where they were. Through them, I returned to the basics again and again, deepening my respect for the foundations of Kathak.
Today, I see myself as a bridge, still a student, yet entrusted with the responsibility of guiding others. I do not see this role as a position of authority, but as one of care, love and honesty. To be part of the Guru–Shishya Parampara is to protect what has been given, to pass it on with honesty and to ensure that the values of discipline, devotion and respect continue to live through each new dancer.
This part of my journey has taught me that Kathak is sustained not only through performance, but through patience, responsibility and dedication. In carrying my Guru’s teachings forward, I remain connected to her not just as her student, but as a reflection of the tradition she has entrusted to me.
By Mandeera Jurakan