Is it ever too late to learn?

“Four young mothers, plucked enough courage and gathered enough determination, to walk into my class as students. Watching their daughters’ journey in the Aakriti Kathak classes had re-kindled the creative urges and inspired them to pick up their long lost tryst with dance. It has been an quite a journey since then. The group has grown steadily in much more than mere numbers. Negotiating amidst the family responsibilities, the social expectations and the demands of their own successful professions, the group continues through the ups and downs, the highs and the lows of life and Dance. My stern rebukes and their own frustrations at not giving more time to “riyaaz”, often brought them at the verge of giving up, and the group, close to disintegrating. But no one gave up. We went through two annual shows where they dropped everything else to put in their best and gave us two beautiful pieces. Today I can’t but feel proud at the quiet strength in their footwork rhythms, the hidden poetry in their movements and the subtle confidence that has crept into the dance postures. They still forget the steps and the bandishes .. Parties, unexpected guests and school exams still take over, but… The tryst will be fulfilled, no matter what. Their individual art journeys are now safe. I feel blessed to be part of these journeys. My salute to the spirit of lifelong learning.”