Dr. Uma Rele

🪔 About

Dr. Uma Rele is a distinguished figure in Indian Classical Dance, currently serving as the Principal of Nalanda Nritya Kala Mahavidyalaya in Mumbai and the Director of the Nalanda Dance Research Centre. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics & Political Science, a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Dance), a Master of Fine Arts (Dance), and a Ph.D. in Dance, all from the University of Mumbai. Her doctoral research, completed in 2001, focused on 'Aesthetics of Nayikas in Indian Classical Dance'. Dr. Rele joined Nalanda Nritya Kala Mahavidyalaya as a lecturer in 1997 and was appointed Principal in 2003, after over 13 years of teaching experience. As an accomplished performer, theoretician, and guru, Dr. Rele has significantly contributed to the preservation and propagation of Indian classical dance. She is a sought-after teacher, choreographer, and Nattuvanaar, having conducted numerous workshops and adjudicated dance exams internationally in countries such as Doha, Mauritius, and the United States. Her performances with her troupe have graced prestigious platforms like the Khajuraho Dance Festival and Rajgir Mahotsav. Dr. Rele has also conceptualized and directed dance dramas, including "STREE GAATHAA" for the Government of Maharashtra. She is actively involved in academic curriculum development, having presented papers at national and international conferences on various aspects of dance and education. Under her leadership, Nalanda Nritya Kala Mahavidyalaya, founded by her mother-in-law Dr. Kanak Rele, received autonomous status from the UGC in July 2024. Awards & Honours: Maharashtra Gaurav Award (2024), A.P.J Abdul Kalam Bharat Puraskar for Indian Dance (2021), Gold Medal for Light Vocal by the University of Mumbai, Gold Medal for semi classical singing in various Inter – collegiate events.