Join us for a rare opportunity to experience Kalbeliya dance with master artist Khatu Sapera, livestreamed from a professional studio in Jodhpur, India. In this 90-minute interactive workshop, she’ll guide participants through fluid, expressive movement rooted in a living cultural tradition.

Participants in Ojai will follow along on a large screen, joined by Christina Gomes in-studio and supported by Professor Ayla Joncheere in India, who will provide live translation and cultural context. Students will learn Kalbeliya’s foundational movement, experience stories from its heritage, and engage in real-time Q&A with Khatu and the team.

Your ticket includes a vibrant cultural exchange across continents. All levels are welcome.

Workshop Fee: $35 in advance, $40 at the door

Proceeds support Kalbeliya World Initiative and artists who keep this tradition alive.

Instructor Bio: Khatu Sapera

Khatu, a celebrated Kalbeliya dancer from Jodhpur, India who brings expressive movement rooted in a living folk tradition. She performs internationally and leads cultural programs across Rajasthan, sharing the rhythm and spirit of Kalbeliya dance with audiences worldwide.

Photo credit Kalbeliya World

Photo credit Vogue India

About Kalbeliya World

Kalbeliya World is a global platform founded by Christina Gomes, Professor Ayla Joncheere, and Aakansha Maheshwari to support Kalbeliya artists in Rajasthan through cultural exchange, livestream teaching, and storytelling. The platform centers community voice, lineage, and artistry in every offering.

Meet your Hosts

Christina Gomes Christina is a Kalbeliya dance practitioner, social entrepreneur, and co-founder of Kalbeliya World. Based in Ojai, she bridges decades of experience in community movement work with deep collaboration alongside Kalbeliya artists in India. Her work centers on connection, cultural respect, and embodied learning.

Professor Ayla Joncheere Ayla is a Kalbeliya dancer, cultural anthropologist, and co-founder of Kalbeliya World. She holds a PhD in cultural studies and teaches in Jodhpur, India, where she works closely with Kalbeliya artists. Her practice blends lived tradition with research and global cultural exchange.

FAQ's

• Do I need experience to attend? No prior experience is needed—this class is open to all skill levels.

• What should I wear? Comfortable dance clothing is recommended; long skirts are encouraged but not required.

• Do I need to be barefoot? Kalbeliya is traditionally danced barefoot, but comfort and stability come first. Wear what helps you move with ease — barefoot, socks, or soft dance shoes are all welcome.

• Is the class in English? Yes, the class will be taught in English with live translation as needed.

• Will there be interaction with the teacher? Yes! Students can ask questions throughout, with support from Christina and Ayla.

• Will this class be offered again? This is the first in what we hope will become an ongoing series.

• What happens if the livestream is interrupted or the connection from India is unstable?

In the rare event of a tech disruption, all participants will receive access to a special pre-recorded Kalbeliya dance class, filmed in India, with one of our teaching artists. This ensures your experience remains valuable, even if we encounter connectivity issues.

• Can I take photos or videos? Brief, respectful clips are welcome for personal and social sharing—please tag @kalbeliya.world and @danceojai, @meenasapera