Anvat 2024 | Day 2 - Session 1 | Symposiums by Raju Sutar, Kranti Kanade, Pt. Suresh Talwalkar

Rithwik Foundation for Performing Arts and Navasarjan Lalit Kala Foundation are proud to present Anvat 2024. It is a two-day symposium with eminent artists from the field of Sangeet, Nrutya, Natya, Chitra and Film, followed by Kathak performances on rare compositions of Guru Pt. Dr. Rohini Bhate.
This session includes symposiums by
Raju Sutar (Artist/Curator)
Kranti Kanade (Film maker)
Pt. Suresh Talwalkar (Tabla Maestro)
Anvat in the context of kathak would refer to a contemporary approach that challenges traditional norms and aesthetics of the form. While Kathak is deeply rooted in classical Indian tradition, Anvat would intent to experiment with innovative techniques, explore unconventional themes, and push the boundaries of movement and expression. This might involve blending Kathak with contemporary dance styles, incorporating modern music or visual elements, or reimagining traditional narratives in a contemporary context. Essentially, Anvat seeks to redefine the art form for the modern audience while honoring its rich heritage.
Raju Sutar’s artistic journey began with a chance encounter when an art school teacher noticed his paintings on ply boards at his father’s carpentry unit. This sparked his fascination with art, which he pursued formally at Abhinav Kala Mahavidyalaya, Pune, starting in 1987. Before art school, he honed his skills through practical work like posters, screen-printed cards, and 3D drawings for his father’s business. While studying, Raju delved into art history, drawing inspiration from Jackson Pollock’s abstract expressionism. Seeking to refine his craft, he engaged with renowned artists like M.F. Husain, Prabhakar Barwe, and Akbar Padamsee, which profoundly shaped his artistic perspective.
Raju’s work reflects a blend of Indian traditions and modern abstract art. He views painting as an intimate dialogue, where lines and strokes evolve organically without a predetermined concept. Over time, he has simplified his style, focusing on essential elements like structure and line, where every detail contributes to the artwork’s cohesion.
His process emphasizes texture, form, space, and particularly color, which he layers meticulously in his oil paintings to achieve a luminous effect. Recently, he has explored circular canvases inspired by the traditional Indian ganjifa cards, finding the format both challenging and stimulating. For Raju, a true artwork is a mirror of the artist’s inner self, capturing authenticity without pretense.
Kranti Kanade is an Indian filmmaker, who works in the Hindi and English film industries. His graduation thesis film, Chaitra (2002), won five National Awards. Kanade made his directorial debut with the children’s movie, Mahek in 2007. The
movie premiered at the BFI London Film Festival to rave reviews and was nominated at for the Best Children’s Film at the Asia Pacific Screen Awards in Australia. For his next, Kanade directed Harvey Keitel, Neeraj Kabi and Suhasini Mulay in Gandhi of the Month (2014).
In 2017 he directed CRD, with Vinay Sharma, Mrinmayee Godbole, Geetika Tyagi, Isha Keskar and Abhay Mahajan in prominent roles.
Taalyogi Pandit Suresh Talwalkar is one of the foremost Tabla maestros of modern times, celebrated for his contributions as both an artist and a Guru to Indian classical music. Born into a “Keertankar” family steeped in devotional and musical traditions, he was introduced to Tabla by his father, Shri Dattatray Talwalkar. He further honed his craft under Pt. Pandharinath Nageshkar, Pt. Vinayakrao Ghangrekar, and Mridangam maestro Pt. Ramnad Ishwaran, gaining expertise in both North and South Indian rhythmic traditions.
Renowned as a solo performer with a unique style, Sureshji has accompanied legendary artists like Pt. Gajananbuva Joshi and Pt. Nivruttibuva Sarnaik, whom he considers key influences. His innovative approach introduced vocal accompaniment to solo Tabla performances and enriched the art form with creations like “Taal Mala” and “Joad Taal,” earning widespread acclaim.
A visionary composer, Sureshji’s works, such as Taal Yatra and Laya Kalpana, and group concerts like Taal Mala and Taal Yatra, showcase his creativity and innovation. His compositions have inspired musicians globally, including jazz artists seeking his rhythmic expertise.