Samlapa: The Discourse Series: I am a fleeting moment in time: Kathak Guru Shovana Narayan, by Maya Parijat. Publisher: Vitasta Publishing Private Limited
Bharat Bodh Kendra (HLRC) hosted a thought-provoking session of “Samlapa: The Discourse Series” at the Gulmohar Hall, India Habitat Centre, featuring a discussion on the book I Am a Fleeting Moment in Time: Kathak Guru Shovana Narayan by Dr. Maya Parijat. It is one of the many initiatives taken by Prof. (Dr.) K. G. Suresh, Director of India Habitat Centre, to promote meaningful discussions on India’s Knowledge system, culture and heritage.
Chairing the session, Prof. (Dr.) K. G. Suresh, Director of India Habitat Centre, emphasized that classical arts must be understood beyond entertainment. He stressed the importance of discussing their aesthetic significance, philosophical depth, and cultural context to truly appreciate their value.
In her reflections, Shovana Narayan spoke about her sahityik (literary) family background and credited her mother and her guru Naina Devi for giving her art its inner soul. She acknowledged learning the aesthetics and refined grammar of Kathak from Birju Maharaj. She emphasized that emotions in dance are universal and must move beyond technique to create a deep human connection.
The discussion was beautifully moderated by Ambassador Ashok Sajjanhar, who conducted the session in an excellent and highly engaging manner. With clarity, warmth, and insight, he guided the conversation seamlessly across themes of art, literature, discipline, and public service. He congratulated the Director for conceptualizing such meaningful dialogues through the Samlapa series and appreciated the efforts of Bharat Bodh Kendra. He described the book as deeply engaging, noting that it recounts numerous life instances and unfolds layer by layer, offering a 360-degree portrayal of the personality, thoughts, and ideas of Shovana Narayan.
Dr. Maya Parijat shared how the idea of the book emerged and spoke about the extensive interactions and research that went into documenting the life of Guru Shovana Narayan. Dr. Maya Parijat shared that the book’s journey began a year ago with a vision to present something distinct. She highlighted Shovana Narayan’s humility, dedication, commitment etc.
The session concluded with an engaging interaction with the audience. In his closing remarks, Prof. (Dr.) K. G. Suresh, Director India Habitat Centre thanked the panelists and attendees and announced that IHC library would soon be having a dedicated segment Bhasha consisting books in Indian Languages.
