Tabla virtuoso Prasad and Kathak artist Aditi, co-founders of Ankana Academy, bring Indian classical arts to life through their dynamic performances, dedicated teaching, and immersive youth workshops. With national recognition and over 3,000 students trained, they are passionate custodians of rhythm and tradition. Their stage presence is a captivating blend of intricate percussion and expressive movement — a harmonious celebration of India’s rich cultural heritage. Together, they craft a timeless symphony of melody and motion that inspires the next generation to embrace and carry forward the legacy of classical art forms. Prasad Ajarekar, a nationally acclaimed tabla maestro, composer, and author, holds a Sangeet Alankar (Master's) degree in Tabla from Akhil Bharatiya Gandharva Mahavidyalaya, where he topped the nation. As Creative Director of Ankana Academy and a renowned teacher in Thane, he is dedicated to nurturing young percussion talent.Dr. Aditi Deshkar Ajarekar, a practicing homeopathic doctor and dietician, is also an accomplished Kathak artist with a Kathak Alankar degree. A solo performer, choreographer, and teacher, she founded Ankana Academy 17 years ago, training over 3,000 students in Kathak.Together, they have performed at major festivals like Yuva Mahotsav, Triveni Festival, and Sanskruti Art Festival. Through performances, workshops, and seminars, they inspire youth to embrace and respect Indian classical music and dance. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
More from TED
- 1:45Until the Next Crossroad Calls | Peyton Crage | TEDxSaintAndrewsSchoolIn this poem, Peyton Crage explores the weight of choice at life's crossroads, leading viewers through uncertainty toward self-discovery. Peyton is a freshman at Saint Andrew’s School, which she has attended since kindergarten. She was born and raised in Florida. She loves going to the beach, hanging out with friends, cooking, and creating art. She wanted to participate in TEDx to share her love for poetry and improve her public speaking skills. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 18:00How Embracing Autistic Culture Could Save Lives | Angela Kingdon | TEDxNCStateIn her TEDx talk, Angela Kingdon celebrates all the intricacies of Autistic Joy while fostering appreciation for neurodiversity. Dr. Angela Kingdon is an Autistic advocate, bestselling author, founder of Difference Press Publishing, and host of the award-winning Autistic Culture Podcast, a Substack bestseller. After discovering she was Autistic at 39, Angela helps others identify and celebrate Autistic traits and equips young adults to find their neurokin and embrace their birthright heritage. Her TEDx talk celebrates Autistic Joy while fostering appreciation for neurodiversity. She holds a B.A. and M.A. in journalism from The George Washington University and a Ph.D. in Communications from The European Graduate School. Angela lives in England with her husband and two cats, studies psychology at the University of Kent, and serves on the editorial board of Neurodiversity Journal. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
