Stay fit by practising Kathak

Nashik, Apr 24 (UNI) A dance academy here is propagating the health benefits of learning Kathak, the Indian classical dance form, to women over 40 years of age to stay fit.

The academy, Kalanand Kathak Nrityasanstha, conducts a one-year course in the dance form for women above 40 years of age. Its second batch completed the course recently. A group of 12 students presented a programme organised on the occasion.

''People resort to things like aerobics to stay fit. Our classical dances such as Kathak can provide the same results. It also provides the joy of practising an art form as well as help in enhancing confidence among these women,'' Sanjeevani Kulkarni, founder of the institute, said.

''I was doubtful whether I can do this or not. But madam made it simple for us and now we can perform on stage without being scared.

It's different from our regular routine. We got something new to learn and also made new friends. Above all, it increased our confidence and also provided us happiness,'' said Archana Deshpande, one of the participants, who echoed the sentiments of her batch mates.

''I would come again next year,'' she added.

A day will come when even men will learn this dance form to stay fit and tread a new path dominated by women, another woman said.

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