Bandana Sen

🪔 About

Bandana Sen is a legendary Kathak maestro, recognized as one of India's finest dancers. Born into a cultured and educated family, she drew inspiration from her father, Sri P. C. Sen, a Barrister of the Calcutta High Court. Her initial training in Kathak was in the Jaipur Gharana under the tutelage of Smt. Jaikumari Debi. She later received guidance from the iconic Nritya Samrat Sambhu Maharaj of the Lucknow Gharana, enriching her understanding and mastery of the dance form. A graduate in arts from Calcutta University, Bandana Sen has had an extensive career, performing in nearly 4000 programs across India and internationally, including prestigious music conferences. She represented India as a Cultural Ambassador at the Xth World Youth Festival in Berlin (East Germany) and the U.S.S.R. Her dance is celebrated for its exquisite, illuminating, and forceful qualities, characterized by elegance, chastity, and captivating style. She is often referred to as the 'Queen of expression' due to her graceful and poetic exposition of 'bhava' (expression). Her performances are also noted for her distinct 'bols' on various 'talas', Urdu 'Sairees' (poems), and sweet songs. Beyond performing, Sen has choreographed numerous Kathak productions, including "The history of kathak through the ages," "Raagmala," "Ritumala," "Rhythm of India," "Devotees through the ages," "Shakuntala," "Meerabai," and "Siddharta." Dedicated to the advancement of Kathak, she founded and leads two institutions: Nupur Dance Academy and Vandana School of Kathak, both recognized as leading dance institutes in India. She also serves as an Advisory Committee member and Judge for various esteemed organizations, including Television, Rabindra Bharati University, All India Post & Telegraph Association, Paschim Banga Rajya Sangeet Academy, and All India Fine Arts Association. Awards & Honours: NRITYA SHIROMONI, KATHAK QUEEN, BHAV SAMRAGGI, NRITYASRI, Gold medal from the President of India, Gold medal from Sir Jahangir Gandhi, Gold medal from Sir Padampat Singhania, Gold medal from Nawab Sir Reza AH Khan Bahadur, Gold KUKRI from King of Nepal, First prize in A.I. Inter University Youth Festival (Delhi), First prize in A.I. Inter University Youth Festival (Mysore).