In Memoriam: Former Dance Lecturer, Kathak Master Chitresh Das

SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE -- Pandit Chitresh Das, who died at 70 in Marin County on Sunday, January 4, of an aortic dissection, was not the only distinguished classical Indian dancer to make a home in the Bay Area, but thanks to his mesmerizing performance style, his extensive educational efforts and his fervent advocacy on behalf of the classical Indian movement form called Kathak, he alone sometimes seemed to be introducing us to the secrets of a remarkable culture. Das’ most lasting influence may be his pioneering work in education. As early as 1979, he formalized in San Rafael the Chhandam School of Kathak, which fed the Chitresh Das Dance Company. He established schools throughout the Bay Area and brought his talents to San Francisco State University and Stanford University.