
As a first, Routes 2 Roots launched three books on Hindustani
Classical Vocal Music, Kathak and Bharatanatyam, in a star-studded
launch event held in the heart of Delhi at the India Habitat Centre on
7th February 2025. The event was attended by Member of Lok
Sabha Shri Ajay Bhatt, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Culture,
Government of India Ms Amita Prasad Sarabhai - IRAS and Mr Vinod Duggal
former Governor who also launched the books with luminaries of arts -
Padmashri Odissi dancer Kiran Segal, Grammy Award winner flautist
Rakesh Chaurasia, the authors Dr Anirban Bhattacharya, Richa Jain and
Dr Varun Khanna, as well as Routes 2 Roots Founders Tina Vachani and
Rakesh Gupta with Parragon Publishers MD Vineet Sharma.
Members of the artiste fraternity, Routes 2 Roots faculty and barons
from the media and advertising industry were present in large numbers
to witness the launch of the books, the first in a series to be
launched by the NGO in different art forms. The books are an extension
of the cultural education program run by the NGO to teach sixteen
different disciplines of performing arts to over two crore students
across India as well as students overseas. They aim to educate lovers
of Hindustani Classical Vocal music, Kathak and Bharatanatyam, across
ages about the history and origins of the art forms and their
evolution over centuries from the origins to the current practices.
The books take the readers through the concept of different gharanas,
schools and bani-s, along with their unique facets that emanate from
various influences and styles brought in by the practitioners over
generations. Attractively produced, they are a must-read for students
and music and dance lovers.
The launch event also included a panel discussion featuring the
authors and the Guests of Honour, Kiran Segal and Rakesh Chaurasia.
They participated in an engaging discussion on classical art forms and
the integration of modern technology to promote and propagate them.
The event concluded with a dinner that lingered well into the night. A
look at some of the most iconic moments from the evening!!