Martial art training for BNA students in Lucknow

The students of Bhartendu Natya Akademi recently underwent a 25-day martial arts training workshop. The popular style of martial art forms from Manipur called Thang-Ta and Tai-Chi were learnt by the students. They performed on the final day of the workshop at the Thrust Auditorium of BNA showcasing the skills they had mastered in the 25-day training.
Students of Bhartendu Natya Akademi undergoing martial arts training workshop (BCCL/ Aditya Yadav)
Performing with swords and sticks, the students were kicked as they matched their steps with the beat of the drum played by their guru S Biswajit Singh, while two among them indulged in a duel."The best thing about our mentor was that he paid attention to each and every student. And apart from Thang-Ta and Tai-Chi, he also taught us meditation, patience and how to build focus," said Pooja, one of the students.
(BCCL/ Aditya Yadav)
The final act was of Tai-Chi by the students in a group. "I have learnt how to control my body using my mind. There are a very few teachers we come across jinke saath hum hanste khelte apne lessons sikhte hain. We never felt that we are learning such a difficult thing because it was so enjoyable and fun to learn," said Harikesh Maurya.
(BCCL/ Aditya Yadav)
"The training that we had was one of the best experiences of my life. We used to train from dawn to 11 am for about five intense hours every day. I learned awareness which is very helpful on the stage. Through this workshop, we learned to develop concentration and flexibility of the body," said Aditya Takote, one of the students.
The day concluded with all the students clicking selfies with their master and dancing on the song 'Rang De Basanti'.
— Saad Abbasi
(L) Rakesh Pandey (R) Guru Biswajit Singh (BCCL/ Aditya Yadav)