Category: Announcements

Updates not related to our classes, performances, or programs (such as important changes or new features for our website).

Pandit ji Birju Maharaj Passes

The foremost master of classical Indian Kathak dance, Pandit ji Birju Maharaj, passed away on January 17, 2022. He gave the world a unique glimpse of master storytelling through dance with skill, finesse, and beauty. Born into the most prestigious family of Kathak artists – Shambhu Maharaj, Lachhu Maharaj, and Acchan Maharaj – he was… Continue reading Pandit ji Birju Maharaj Passes

CID UNESCO Seminar

Utpalasia is honored to be among the speakers for the International Dance Council – CID UNESCO online seminar to explore and discuss “Indian Dance in the Americas.” We will be joined by professional educators, as well as artists and dancers from around the globe providing inciteful glimpses into the challenges faced, and current innovations implemented,… Continue reading CID UNESCO Seminar

Utpalasia Celebrates Newest CID Members

We had the pleasure of presenting a new group of students with their International Dance Council memberships last month. Each of these motivated young dancers is a candidate pursuing their Certification in Dance Studies for the year 2021 with Utpalasia. The Conseil International de la Danse (also known as CID) is an official partner of… Continue reading Utpalasia Celebrates Newest CID Members

In Memoriam: Laxmi Nath Shrestha

We are immensely saddened by the passing last week in Nepal of honored mentor and beloved teacher, Laxmi Nath Shrestha (1949 – 2020). I had the privilege and honor of studying with Laxmi ji at the University of Heidelberg (SAI Institute). His unique instruction of the Nepali language, often interspersed with cultural anecdotes, was engaging… Continue reading In Memoriam: Laxmi Nath Shrestha

Himalayan Vintage & Designer Art

Summer has arrived with a big blast of heat. Some of us are out and about in our jobs, others are working online, and many are still sheltering safely at home. While we are all navigating the ‘new normal’, one thing to keep in mind is self-care. Do good things – eat better, exercise more… Continue reading Himalayan Vintage & Designer Art

Advanced Kathak Workshops – Summer 2020

Kathak is one of the main classical Indian dances that inspires and delights audiences with its fast spins, energetic footwork, intricate hand moves, and artistic presentation. Jaipur and Lucknow, the two principal schools of Kathak, differ considerably. The former is more athletic and vibrant, while the latter has a subtler and more emotive style. Like… Continue reading Advanced Kathak Workshops – Summer 2020

Summer Language Learning with Native & Bilingual Tutors

Everyone knows that along with dance, learning a foreign language is a great activity to keep you mentally alert, foster long and short term memory, and improve your all around knowledge base. Besides, it’s cool and a lot of fun! Education has been migrating to online platforms for quite a while, but it got its… Continue reading Summer Language Learning with Native & Bilingual Tutors

Bollywood Fusion Workshops – Summer 2020

Dance is a multi-faceted activity that not only works your body, but has a positive effect on mental health as well. It is a tremendous stress reliever and pumps you full of endorphins, essentially giving you a shot of happiness. Health organizations all recommend doing consistent cardio throughout the week and dance is a fun… Continue reading Bollywood Fusion Workshops – Summer 2020

International Dance Day

No time like the present to learn, practice, demonstrate, and share your love of dance! UNESCO’s CID is offering the opportunity of uploading your event for free tomorrow in honor of International Dance Day. So get up, get moving, and pass along some happiness by sharing your favorite style with the world. To catch some… Continue reading International Dance Day