Das Institute spins a story of sacred water

Kathak might rank as the most mesmerizing of classical Indian dance styles, combining the athleticism of fast spins, the rhythmic excitement of percussive footwork, and the narrative allure of mythical tales told with bold facial expressions and theatrical gestures.

Kathak master Chitresh Das led an explosion in the form’s popularity when he came to California and established a school in 1979; Charlotte Moraga has emerged as a foremost torchbearer for his legacy since his death seven years ago.

Her new “Invoking the River” uses kathak to explore environmental themes, inspired by India’s sacred waterways.

Chitresh Das Institute’s “Invoking the River”: 8 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Oct. 14-15, and 4 p.m. Oct. 16. $20-$45. ODC Theater, 3153 17th St., S.F. https://odc.dance/ InvokingTheRiver

Ravi Kohli