Routes2Roots, a Delhi-based non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting art, culture, and heritage, in association with Parragon Publishing, unveiled a three-book series titled Rhythms & Ragas at a special launch early this week. The books, which explore Kathak, Hindustani Classical Vocal and Bharatanatyam, aim to educate and inspire readers about the rich traditions of Indian art forms.
The launch event was graced by Mr Ajay Bhatt, Member of Parliament and Former Minister of state for Defense and Tourism, Mr Vinod Duggal former Governor Manipur and Secretary Home, Government of India, Padma Shri Dr Kiran Segal, Grammy award winner Rakesh Chaurasia, Ms Amita Sarabhai, Jt. Secretary Ministry of Culture. Also in attendance were the founders of Routes2Roots, Mr. Rakesh Gupta, Ms. Tina Vachani and Mr Sunil Vachani, Chairman Dixon Technologies Ltd. along with Mr. Vineet Sharma, Managing Director of Parragon Publishing, as well as distinguished artists and cultural enthusiasts.
The Rhythms & Ragas series comprises three books—Kathak by Richa Jain, Hindustani Classical Vocal by Anirban Bhattacharya, and Bharatanatyam by Varun Khanna. The books delve into each art form’s origins, evolution, history, and traditions. They also cover various aspects such as gharanas (schools of thought), accompanying instruments in music, costumes and jewellery in dance, the role of folk traditions, religion, festivals, and the guru-shishya parampara (teacher-student lineage). Each book highlights the contributions of legendary artists who have shaped these disciplines and examines how these art forms continue to thrive in modern times.
Each book features a foreword by an eminent maestro from the respective field, adding depth and authenticity to the series. Kathak includes a foreword by Padmashri Smt. Shovana Narayan, Hindustani Classical Vocal features insights from Padma Bhushan Pandit, Ajoy Chakrabarty, and Bharatanatyam, introduced by the late Padma Bhushan Smt. Saroja Vaidyanathan. Additionally, the books are enriched with quotes from renowned personalities such as actress Juhi Chawla, Padma Vibhushan Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, and Dr. Narthaki Nataraj.
