Katha-Sutra: Where Words Become Stories

Katha-Sutra presents an enchanting evening of storytelling through the classical dance traditions of Kathak and Kathakali . Showcasing compelling narratives, expressive artistry, and the rich heritage of Indian classical performance, the event promises a unique cultural experience where stories unfold through movement, rhythm, and emotion.

Date: 14 June 2026

Time: 6:30 PM onwards

Venue : Mahanayak Uttam Mancha, Kolkata

10/1/1, Manohar Pukur Road, Hazra, Kalighat, Kolkata – 700026

The evening will feature with two compelling productions:

Sita Anjaneya Katha – The Token of Faith

In a pioneering endeavour, Kathakali artists Prolay Sarkar and Ramyani Roy attempt, for the first time in the history of Kathakali, to present a production based on selected verses from Tulsidas' Ramcharitmanas in its original Awadhi language. The script has been thoughtfully adapted and interpreted under the guidance of Debopam Das , creating a unique confluence of literary tradition and classical performance.

The production brings to life a poignant episode from the Ramayana , where Sita, held captive in Ashok Vatika, entrusts Hanuman with her cherished Chudamani as a token for Lord Rama. More than a jewel, it becomes a powerful emblem of faith, hope, and unwavering devotion. Through Kathakali's rich vocabulary of expression, gesture, and emotion, Sita Anjaneya Katha explores the profound bond between Sita and Hanuman while celebrating the timeless ideals of trust, courage, and devotion.

Moonstruck – A Story of Moon and a Man

Presented by acclaimed Kathak exponent Ashimbandhu Bhattacharjee, Moonstruck is a poetic journey exploring humanity’s eternal fascination with the moon. Through the graceful language of Kathak, the performance weaves together wonder, longing, imagination, and the mysterious bond between man and the celestial world. 

(Arangettam / Rangapravesham Ceremony)

The evening will also feature the Kathakali Arangettam (Rangapravesham) of two dedicated & promising disciples— Roshmika Manna , disciple of Ramyani Roy and Rakesh Bar , disciple of Prolay Sarkar .

Arangettam, meaning a dancer's formal stage debut after years of rigorous training, marks an important milestone in a performer's artistic journey. This special occasion celebrates their dedication, discipline, and readiness to carry forward the rich tradition of Kathakali.

About the Artists

Prolay Sarkar is an acclaimed Kathakali performer, choreographer, and Founder-Director of Baksara Mudralap Art Academy . Trained under eminent gurus and recognized across national and international platforms, he is known for his commitment to preserving Kathakali while continuously exploring innovative thematic productions and original artistic concepts.

Ramyani Roy , Founder-Director of Prayas – Centre for Performing Arts , is a Kathakali artist, choreographer, educator, researcher, and UGC-NET scholar. Through her performances, pedagogy, and creative endeavours, she actively contributes to the growth of Indian classical arts. Together, Prolay Sarkar and Ramyani Roy have been creating distinctive productions year after year, bringing fresh perspectives and imaginative interpretations to the Kathakali stage.

Ashimbandhu Bhattacharjee is an internationally acclaimed Kathak artist, choreographer, and educator. A disciple of legendary gurus including Padma Vibhushan Pandit Birju Maharaj, he has performed extensively in India and abroad and has made significant contributions to the propagation of Kathak through his institution, Upasana Centre for Dance. 

Katha-Sutra promises an enriching evening of artistic excellence, featuring the evocative productions Moonstruck – A Story of Moon and a Man and Sita Anjaneya Katha – The Token of Faith , alongside the Kathakali Arangettam (Rangapravesham) of two emerging performers. Blending innovation with tradition, the event offers a compelling celebration of storytelling through dance, where classical artistry, imagination, and dedication converge on a single stage. Audiences, cultural enthusiasts, and members of the media are warmly invited to witness this memorable confluence of performance, heritage, and artistic achievement.