Raipur: An evocative Kathak performance depicting one of the most poignant episodes from the Mahabharata by Ms Anchal Pandey and her team emerged as a major highlight of the second evening of the three-day Chhattisgarh Rajyotsav 2026, on November 2.
The performance held the audience spellbound, leaving a lasting impression on art lovers.
Organised by the Department of Culture, Government of Chhattisgarh, the festival was held from November 1 to 3 at Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Industry and Trade Complex (Mela Ground), Nava Raipur, Atal Nagar.
On the second evening, art lovers were treated to an array of captivating performances. However, it was Ms Pandey and her team’s compelling presentation ‘Draupadi Cheer Haran’ emerged as one of the evening’s most memorable attractions, leaving the audience glued to their seats through the entire production.
Choreographed by Ms Pandey, the production vividly brought to life Draupadi’s anguish and helplessness in the royal court, her unwavering faith in Lord Krishna, and the divine intervention that ultimately safeguarded her dignity. Through powerful abhinaya, expressive facial expressions, graceful movements, seamless synchronisation and meticulously executed formations, the artistes-Ms Anchal Pandey, Shruti Dewangan, Ananya Sao, Ruchi Dewangan, Abhimanyu Singh, Shrijal Sahu, Shasthi Mourya and Ankita Bajpai-breathed life into this emotionally charged episode from the epic.
Their nuanced portrayal struck an emotional chord with the audience and held its attention throughout the performance. Huge round of applause that followed the performance was a testament to the profound impact the presentation had on the audience, with many appreciating the artistes’ ability to convey the timeless message of faith, devotion and divine protection through classical dance.
Ms Pandey’s artistic journey reflects years of rigorous training and dedication to Indian classical dance. She received her initial training in Kathak under the tutelage of Guru Vasanti Vaishnav, Padma Shri Pt. Ramlal Bareth, and Pt. Bhupendra Bareth. She subsequently pursued her Odissi dance training under the esteemed guidance of Guru Dr. Gajendra Panda.
An acclaimed exponent of both Kathak and Odissi, Ms Pandey has carved a distinct identity for herself in the world of Indian classical dance. She has performed at several prestigious festivals in India and abroad, including Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Bahrain, South Korea, Dubai, and North Africa, showcasing the richness and elegance of India’s cultural heritage.
She is also no stranger to awards and accolades. Her artistic journey has been recognised with several prestigious honours, including the Chhattisgarh Ratna Award, Kala Vidya Samman, Nrityashree National Award, and Kalpana Ratna Shikshan Samman, among others.
Beyond the stage, Ms Pandey is equally committed to nurturing the next generation of artistes. As the founder of ‘Nrityadhara Welfare Foundation’, she works towards promoting Indian classical dance, nurturing young talent, and creating national and international performance opportunities for emerging artistes.
Her performance at Chhattisgarh Rajyotsav once again reaffirmed her artistic vision and commitment to keeping India’s rich classical dance traditions alive and relevant.
