Yasmin Singh - Kathak Dancer

About the Books

Book 1: Raigarh Gharane Ki Kathak Rachnao Ka Soundaryabodh

In this magnum opus, Dr. Yasmin Singh unfurls the rich tapestry of Kathak as it blossomed within the Raigarh Gharana. She illuminates the exquisite compositions that flourished under the patronage of Raja Chakradhar Singh, each piece a testament to the confluence of rhythm, melody, and grace

The book delves into the intricate nuances of these works, offering a window into the aesthetic brilliance and technical mastery that define the Raigarh tradition. It stands as a beacon for scholars and aficionados alike, guiding them through the legacy of a gharana that continues to enchant and inspire.

Book 2: Raja Chakradhar Singh – Kathak Nritya Praneta evam Sanrakshak

This scholarly work pays homage to the visionary monarch, Raja Chakradhar Singh, whose profound love for music and dance transformed the cultural landscape of Raigarh. Dr. Singh chronicles how the king, both a sovereign and a musician, nurtured and safeguarded the art of Kathak, ensuring its preservation and propagation.

Through his patronage, the guru-shishya tradition flourished, and the classical compositions were meticulously codified in granths, securing their place in history. This book captures the essence of a court that was a crucible of artistic innovation, offering readers and dance enthusiasts an accessible, valuable and intimate glimpse into the cultural renaissance that Raja Chakradhar Singh championed.

Raja Chakradhar Singh – Kathak Nritya Praneta evam Sanrakshak

Book 3: Nritya Nibandhwali

Dance is not merely movement; it is a living expression of culture, philosophy, and human emotion. The book brings together a series of Kathak journals, research articles, and critical essays authored by Dr. Yasmin Singh over the years, highlighting her academic engagement and artistic perspective within the Indian classical dance landscape.

Through this publication, the author explores diverse dimensions of Kathak, including its historical roots, stylistic nuances, repertoire development, pedagogy, and contemporary relevance. The essays also address thematic interpretations, cultural contexts, and the role of Kathak in preserving India’s intangible heritage while adapting to modern artistic expressions.

The book serves as a valuable resource for dancers, scholars, students, and art enthusiasts, offering both theoretical depth and practical understanding. Written with clarity and academic rigor, yet accessible to readers beyond the scholarly community, Nritya Nibandhawali bridges the gap between performance practice and research discourse.

Book 4: Kathak Nritya ka Itihas – Chhattisgarh Rajya ke Sandarbh mein

Indian classical dance traditions represent not only artistic excellence but also the cultural memory and evolving identity of society. Among these traditions, Kathak holds a distinctive position, having journeyed through centuries while continuously adapting to changing social, cultural, and regional contexts. While much has been documented about Kathak in its traditional centres, the regional growth and development of the art form in states like Chhattisgarh deserve focused academic attention.

The book, explores the historical evolution, institutional support, pedagogical practices, and artistic contributions that have shaped the presence of Kathak in Chhattisgarh. The state, rich in cultural heritage and artistic sensibilities, has provided fertile ground for the growth of classical arts alongside its vibrant folk traditions. Over the years, Kathak has found recognition through cultural institutions, dedicated gurus, emerging performers, and academic initiatives, leading to its steady expansion within the region.

Author's Note

The genesis of my books, Raigarh Gharane Ki Kathak Rachnao Ka Soundaryabodh and Raja Chakradhar Singh – Kathak Nritya Praneta evam Sanrakshak, emanates from a profound and sacred bond with the Raigarh Gharana—a tradition though very rich in heritage, remains veiled in the mists of obscurity. I felt a compelling responsibility to illuminate its unique contributions, particularly the luminous legacy of Raja Chakradhar Singh, whose artistry has been a beacon guiding my own journey.

Amidst my research, I often encountered a dearth of authentic sources, akin to a seeker yearning for the sacred texts that illuminate the path. Through these works, I endeavor not only to celebrate and chronicle the Raigarh Gharana but also to provide a sanctuary for future scholars and Kathak practitioners—a repository of knowledge to help nurture their quests. It is my humble aspiration that this endeavor fosters a deeper reverence and understanding of this remarkable gharana/tradition, ensuring its perpetuity for generations yet unborn.

- Dr. Yasmin Singh

Book Launch Event

The official launch of the books "Raigarh Gharane Ki Kathak Rachnao Ka Soundaryabodh" and "Raja Chakradhar Singh – Kathak Nritya Praneta evam Sanrakshak" was held on Monday, 25th November 2024, at Constitution Club, Rafi Marg, New Delhi.

The event was graced by Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Hon'ble Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, as the Chief Guest. Dr. Raman Singh, Chairman of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly, presided over the ceremony, alongside distinguished dignitaries including Dr. Charan Das Mahant, Mr. Nitish Naveen, Mr. V.D. Sharma, and Dr. Preeti Adani.

The event witnessed attendance from a distinguished gathering, including:

Mr. Ajay Jammwal
Mr. Amitabh Kant
Mr. Devendra Singh, MP
Mr. Mahesh Jethmalani
Dr. Mani, Director General, National Museum
Mr. Navneet Sehgal
Mrs. Prashant Mishra
Mr. Rajeev Shukla
Mr. Ram Madhav

Mr. Ravindra Shrivastava
Mr. Sanjay Jaju
Mr. Saudan Singh
Mr. Shekhar Dutt
Mrs. Smita Prakash and Mr. Sanjeev Prakash
Mr. Sodan Singh
Mrs. Suchita Mishra
Mr. Sudhanshu Trivedi, MP
Mr. Vijay Joshi, PTI

Additionally, the ceremony was attended by several senior bureaucrats, prominent media representatives, officers, and friends from Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi, and members of the cultural community, who collectively contributed to the success of this prestigious literary event.