Ashwini Kalsekar

🪔 About

Ashwini Kalsekar is a celebrated Kathak artist, choreographer, and educator based in London, United Kingdom. Renowned for her captivating expressions, graceful movements, and intricate footwork, she is considered a luminary in the realm of Kathak. Ashwini received her foundational training in Kathak for 17 years under her mother, Guru Rekha Nadgauda, who is a leading disciple of the legendary Pt. Gopi Krishna. She furthered her education by pursuing a Master's degree in Kathak under the tutelage of Vidushi Shama Bhate in Pune, India. With over three decades of professional experience, Ashwini Kalsekar has significantly impacted the global Kathak community. She is the Founder and Artistic Director of Kirti Kala Mandir UK (KKMUKCIC), an institute dedicated to preserving and promoting classical Indian dance through classes for all ages across London. As an educator, she has been teaching Kathak in London for over two decades, shaping numerous aspiring dancers. Her choreographies are recognized for their exceptional concepts and vibrancy. Kalsekar's illustrious career includes collaborations with the late Kathak maestro Pandit Birju Maharaj, notably on the Hindi film 'Devdas', and choreography for the Indo-British film 'Ajintha'. Her performances have graced prestigious stages such as the Konark Festival and the Pt. Kalka Bindadin Festival. Her recent innovative works include the musical 'Krishna Priya' and the evocative 'Metronome'. In 2020, she was awarded the Arts Council of England's R&D grant for her project 'Mahadev: The Journey of Shiva'. She also debuted a new choreographic piece titled 'Devi' in 2024, which explores women's empowerment. Awards & Honours: Young People’s Dance Championship Award (2024), One Hounslow Community Star Award (2024), Arts Council of England's R&D grant for 'Mahadev: The Journey of Shiva' (2020), Navadal competition (KKMUKCIC students) (2019).