Dasappa Keshava

🪔 About

Vidwan D. Keshava is a distinguished Indian classical dancer, choreographer, and teacher, renowned for his contributions to Bharatanatyam, particularly the Mysore style. Born in Mysore, South India, in 1946, Keshava embarked on his artistic journey at a young age, initially learning Yoga from his father and later from Yogiraj Deshikacharya. His formal dance training commenced at the University of Mysore from 1969 to 1975, where he studied under the tutelage of Padmabhushana Dr. K. Venkatalakshamma, a revered exponent of the Mysore style of Bharatanatyam and the last representative of a prominent temple dancing dynasty in Karnataka. Keshava achieved significant recognition early in his career, becoming the first male dancer in Karnataka to be awarded the title of Natyavisharada and a gold medal. In 1976, he relocated to Basel, Switzerland, where he became a pioneer in establishing Indian art and culture in Europe. Alongside his Swiss partner, Esther Jenny, he co-founded Kalasri, the first school of Indian dance and Yoga in Switzerland. As the director of the Kalasri Dance Ensemble, Keshava has choreographed numerous traditional and innovative productions, performing extensively across Switzerland, India, Germany, Austria, England, USA, Italy, France, and Kuwait. He is celebrated for his relentless efforts as a cultural mediator between India and Switzerland, upholding the graceful traditions of Indian dance internationally. In 2003, he also founded the Kalasri Cultural Center in Mysore. Awards & Honours: Natyavisharada and a gold medal, Global Man Award (2007), Karnataka Kalashri Award (2021).