This work is the first of its kind in the world of performing Arts that explores and investigates into the motivation, Psychology and personality through the medium of choreographic works of a multi-faceted artist, which in this case is the celebrated Indian Classical dancer of the Kathak style, Shovana Narayan. A living legend in the field of art, she has set a unique trend by redefining Dance and a dancer's life for she is the first ever Professional Career dancer who combines a full fledged career as a senior serving civil servant in the Government of India. She epitomizes the essence of the Natyasastra patra that should be imbued with eleven characteristics such as Rasa, Bhava Abhinaya, Dharmi, Vritti, Pravritti, Siddhi, Svara, Atodya, Gana and Ranga. Thus, she is the true representative of the Indian Cultural Heritage that the Sastras speak about in the Context of a 'personality'.This book makes a serious enquiry into the authenticity of the origin of choreographic works of Shovana Narayan, most of which became trend setters whether it was the use of flares of the skirt in Moonlight Impressionism (1993) or the use of English text (1992) or to themes relating to Philosophy and social awareness (1983 onwards) or performing with dancers of other styles (1976 onwards) and to Music from around the globe (1982 onwards). Besides an in-depth analysis that covers a wide range of expressions and emotions, the book also includes Views of eminent philosophers, poets, writers, Art journalists, eminent Political and administrative personalities as well as leading performing artistes.

About the Author

Kamal K. Mishra, M.A., M.Phil., Ph.D. (University of Delhi), Post Doctoral Research (Jawarharlal Nehru University). Dr. Mishra is a young researcher whose interest covers a wide gamut of Indian Cultural development and its relevance in the modern context is devoted to deep and abiding study in cross-cultural analysis of Orientel languages, literature and art. A recipient of the prestigious Jawaharlal Nehru Scholarship for his doctoral studies on Indian Economy through Sanskrit Inscriptions. He is trained in Epigraphy and Manuscriptology. Recently completed a ICSSR Post-Doctoral Research at the Special Centre for Sanskrit Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, on Self in the Indian Narrative Tradition, Socio-Psychological insights from the epic Mahabharata.