Lucknow, 10th September 2025: Study Hall School, in association with SPIC MACAY (Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture Amongst Youth), hosted Kathakali artist Shri Kalamandalam M. Amaljith for a special performance. The program was organized at two venues – Study Hall, Gomti Nagar Campus and Vidyasthali School in Malihabad.
Kalamandalam M. Amaljith shared his perspective with the students: “Kathakali is not just a performance, it is a way of sharing the rich cultural stories of India. Through expressions and movement, we can communicate universal emotions. I am grateful to SPIC MACAY and Study Hall for giving me the chance to share this with young audiences.”
Amaljith presented Kathakali, the classical dance-drama tradition from Kerala. He demonstrated the Nav Ras (nine emotions) and explained how the art form conveys stories from Indian culture through expressions, gestures, and rhythm. Accompanying him were Shri Suresh Kumar R, Shri Omanakkuttan, Shri Vinod Kumar, and Shri Sunil S, who supported the performance with music and percussion.
The session gave students a rare opportunity to experience Kathakali live. For many, it was their first introduction to the form. The artists also interacted with the students, sharing insights about the discipline and years of training required to master Kathakali.
Dr. Urvashi Sahni, Founder and CEO of Study Hall Educational Foundation, said: “Bringing classical art forms like Kathakali into our schools is not only about performance, it is about education. It gives our students a way to experience India’s cultural heritage directly. We want them to grow into confident global citizens who remain rooted in their traditions.”
This program was part of SPIC MACAY’s ongoing effort to introduce young people to Indian classical music, dance, and heritage. Founded in 1977 by Dr. Kiran Seth, SPIC MACAY is a voluntary movement that reaches schools and colleges across India. Through its activities, it aims to help students connect with cultural traditions and understand the values embedded in them.
