In pictures: Teachers from Kolkata schools showcase various dance forms at Indus Valley World School

Ten schools from across the city took part in a cultural extravaganza at Indus Valley World School on April 27, two days ahead of International Dance Day. Nearly 55 teachers performed in celebration of Indian classical and semi-classical forms of dance

The event highlighted the significance of preserving classical dance as part of the institution’s long-standing tradition. The chief guest for the event was danseuse Shaswati Garai Ghosh. Other reputable educationists were also present

Demonstrations on dance and dialogue were presented by BDM Junior School, BDM International School, Delhi Public School Howrah, Loreto House, Mahadevi Birla World Academy, Silver Point School, Sri Sri Academy, Sushila Birla Girls’ School, The BSS School and the host school. The audience was left spellbound as each presentation was curated to uphold the unique and intricate patterns of different dance forms ranging from Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi and Manipuri to folk and creative contemporary forms

BDM Junior School presented a beautiful classical dance piece through their eight-member troupe. Silver Point School paid tribute to the folk forms of dance as they presented a medley

BDM International School’s presentation was a unique blend of creative dance and patriotic passion. Sushila Birla Girls’ School presented a soulful and graceful rendition of devotional folk dance which had the entire audience clapping along and tapping their feet to the catchy beats

Sri Sri Academy’s tribute to the calming beauty of rain through a semi-classical and contemporary performance was worthy of praise. Mahadevi Birla World Academy made an extremely powerful presentation which touched on the experience of the seven human emotions

Delhi Public School, Howrah, presented a semi-classical dance performance which reflected elegance. The BSS School went on to present an energetic folk dance which filled all hearts with pleasure

The presentation by Loreto House compiled four classical dance forms with panache. The host school presentation was sheer poetry in motion based on an exquisite composition of the late Ustad Rashid Khan

Each participating school was handed over a certificate of appreciation by the chief guest, IVWS director Amita Prasad and principal Reshma Bhattacharya

Curtains went down on the beautiful morning with the Indus Valley World School director Amita Prasad's vote of thanks. ‘I thank the faculty of the school who, under the guidance of the vice-principal Priyadarshinee Guha, worked behind the scenes tirelessly to make the magic happen and commend all the participating schools for their outstanding performances, their passionate commitment and their willingness to go the extra mile notwithstanding the heat and their multifarious responsibilities’