Dancing to a theme
Ajanta and Ellora are Unesco recognised World Heritage Sites in Aurangabad district of Maharashtra. Created between 2nd century BC and 8th century AD, this world heritage site has several caves in which artists have created marvellous frescos and sculptures based on the anecdotes of Lord Shiva, Rama, Buddha and Mahavir.
The dance feature Ajanta Comes Alive, to be staged at Chowdaiah Hall on May 27 is based on the inspiration and feelings young Kathak dancer Prerana Deshpande experienced after her visit to these places. Her production is a tribute to these 'Unknown artists'. It brings together two different styles, Kathak and Odissi, presented by  Prerana Deshpande and Sujata Mohapatra. While the Odissi represents the Moort (Sculpturesque) aspect of the art at Ajanta and Ellora, Kathak focuses on the abstract) aspect. Both the artists have maintained the purity of their respective dance forms in joint presentations.
Prerana teaches at the Centre of Performing Arts at Pune University.  Sujata is an accomplished Odissi dancer from Bhubaneshwar. She is also the daughter-in-law and disciple of legendary Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra. Currently she is the Principal of the institute Srjan, started by Kelucharan Mohapatra for imparting training in Odissi. Sujata holds a Master's Degree in Oriya literature from Utkal University and has extensively researched temple architecture relating to the dance form.