As a dancer interviewing dancers, Gupta, 26, says that his background helped him eliminate preliminary questions such as the historical context of the art form or a comment on the current scenario. "To talk of excellence is to probe how the brain works — where do artistes look for inspiration? Poetry, literature or nature? I didn't want to keep it too academic. It had to be inspiring for a lay person. So, even in 50 years, if people stumble upon this, it will still be something of great value."

Madhur Gupta

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It took Gupta three months to put the series together; he had to reach out to the artistes, make a list of topics to be discussed, and underwent tech runs. Since taking up an art form is a struggle irrespective of whether it's during a pandemic or not, Gupta hopes that people will lend an ear to the maestros to understand how they must still keep at their art because, "art has the power to push through anything."

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Interviews to watch out for

Malavika Sarukkai Today, 2 pm
The expanding canvas – the need for inclusivity

Saswati Sen June 28, 2 pm
Dance as a profession

Mallika Sarabhai June 30, 2 pm
Addressing social issues with classical arts

Surupa Sen July 1, 2 pm
An insight into a choreographer's mind

Prathibha Prahlad July 3, 2 pm
Role of arts in current scenario

Shovana Narayan July 5, 2 pm
Kathak then and now

Alarmel Valli July 7, 2 pm
Exploring Sangam literature through Bharatanatyam

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