Train. Transform. Excel.
Earn a globally recognized credential through the International Dance Council (CID). This program is currently offered for Kathak.
What is CID?
CID (International Dance Council) is a global body for all forms of dance, fostering standards and recognition worldwide. Our partnership enables students to pursue structured training and certification in Kathak that aligns with international benchmarks.
- Internationally recognized certification pathway
- Structured levels with technique, theory, and performance assessment
- Credential suitable for resumes, college applications, and teaching portfolios
Program Quick Facts:
Style: Kathak
Format: Coursework & Assessment
Cadence: Semester & Annual Cohorts
Where: Studio/Online (as offered)
Meet Your Instructor
Tasherit Sturm Dahal
Tasherit is a senior Kathak artist and choreographer whose 23+ years of training in India, Nepal, and the United States ground her work in strong classical technique and expressive abhinaya.
Students training with Tasherit can expect rigorous tal and footwork, clear breakdown of complex movement, and a strong emphasis on storytelling, posture, and grace.
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How the Certification Works
Apply
Begin your certification journey by submitting a brief application so we can understand your Kathak background, goals, and level.
Train
Dive into focused Kathak training that refines technique, tal, footwork, and abhinaya through a structured curriculum.
Assess
When ready, students complete a formal assessment combining practical performance and theoretical understanding.
Certify
Upon successful completion of all requirements, students are recommended for CID certification, gaining internationally recognized credentials in Kathak.
Levels & Structure
What to expect during each phase of your training.
Level 1
Foundation
- Learn basic stance, alignment, and core postures for safe, sustainable practice
- Develop fundamental tatkār (footwork patterns) in slow and medium tempo
- Practice basic hastaks (hand movements) and simple chakkars (turns)
- Memorize essential tāla (rhythmic cycles) and count verbally while dancing
- Explore short combinations and simple storytelling phrases to build confidence in abhinaya
Level 2
Intermediate
- Refine clarity, speed, and stamina in tatkār and extended footwork sequences
- Work with more complex tāla-s, layakari (playing with rhythm), and accented patterns
- Learn intermediate tukrā, tora, and paran with clean execution and endings
- Develop control and spotting in multiple chakkars, including directional turns
- Deepen abhinaya through character work, subtle expression, and short narrative pieces
Level 3
Advanced / Performance
- Perform sustained, high-speed tatkār and advanced rhythmic variations with precision
- Present full-length Kavitt, Paran, and composed pieces with strong stage presence
- Explore advanced layakari, improvisation within a rhythmic framework, and complex tihais
- Integrate nuanced abhinaya, musicality, and emotional layering into solo and group work
- Prepare performance-ready repertoire suitable for assessment, stage presentation, and CID recommendations
Ready to Start Your CID Journey?
Submit your application and we’ll follow up with placement guidance and cohort dates.
FAQ
Have more questions? Feel free to contact us using this form and we’ll get back to you within 24 hours!
