Kalamandir of NJ is a Classical Kathak dance school located in central New Jersey which aims to pass on the rich history of the North Indian classical dance as well as the specific technique of the Lucknow gharana. Under the guidance of Malabika Guha, students undergo rigorous and enlightening weekly training with the ultimate goal of becoming mature, poised “Katthakas,” or those who tell a story. While reflecting on the vast, mixed history of Kathak, which draws its influence from Hindu temples, Persian culture, and Mughal courts, Kalamandir also seeks to place Kathak on a progressive platform where the traditional aspects of its movement are intact, but the form is placed on both classical and classically-based contemporary music. With special weekly classes based in “nritta” (pure dance), “natya” (expressive dance), and contemporary composition, Kalamandir of NJ has successfully been running since 1986 and seeks to continue spreading the rich culture of Kathak for years to come.