Mohsin Babar blends classical kathak with modernity at NAPA

KARACHI, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 30th Apr, 2026) Kathak dancer Mohsin Babar and his troupe presented a scintillating performance of classical and contemporary dances at the National academy of Performing Arts-NAPA to mark the International Dance Day at NAPA's Zia Mohyeddin Theater.

The evening started with Naween Mangi, Patron of the Mohsin Babar Productions, welcoming the guests and introducing the troupe to the audience. Then, as the opening act, Babar’s students presented a dynamic group performance, called Fusion Tarana, where they blended classical kathak with contemporary energy.

Then came Babar himself, presenting a traditional kathak dance called Paayal. This was followed by a tarana by three of Babar’s students.

Next in line was a group performance of Peacock Dance, led by Babar himself, that celebrated the bird and the arrival of monsoon.

Then a Guru Vandhana—Tribute to the Guru—was presented by Aisha.

A solo performance by Babar followed that one, as he interpreted a ghazal in movement.

As grand finale, Mohsin Babar and the entire troupe presented a piece that was called Kathakar aur uss ka saaz—the dancer and his musical instrument. In that piece, the twinkle of the ankle bell was primarily used as the musical accompaniment for the performance.

A large number of dance enthusiasts attended the program and applauded the performances.