Dr. Vrushali Dabke

🪔 About

Dr. Vrushali Dabke is a distinguished Kathak dancer, choreographer, and teacher based in Dombivili, India. Her journey in Indian classical dance began at the tender age of six, receiving her initial training under the revered Kathak teacher Nrityalankar Dr. Manjiri Deo. She furthered her academic pursuits, earning her Nritya Visharad (equivalent to a bachelor's degree) and Nritya Alankar (equivalent to a master's degree) in Dance from Gandharv Mahavidyalaya. Dr. Dabke's commitment to continuous learning is evident through her participation in workshops led by eminent artists such as Pt. Birju Maharaj, Dr. Puru Dadhich, Pt. Mukundraj Deo, Archana Jogalekar, and Pt. Munnalal. She has been a disciple of Dr. Manjiri Deo and Taalmani Pandit Mukundraj Deo for over 30 years. As a performer, Dr. Dabke has graced numerous prestigious festivals and events organized by esteemed art circles like the Vashi Fine Arts Society, Rotary Club, and Dwarakadish Temple. Her performances at seasonal events such as Rang Varsha and Durgashtami have garnered significant appreciation. She has also had the privilege of performing alongside her guru, Dr. Manjiri Deo, in unique programs like 'Chhand Sugandh,' 'Kathak-Lavani Susanvad,' and 'Panchnaad'. Beyond performing, Dr. Dabke is a prolific choreographer, having created works based on themes of patriotism, devotion, and motherhood. Notably, she has experimented with Kathak inspired by Japanese Hiku poetry and has composed pieces with deaf and mute students of Zaveri Muka-Badhir Vidyalaya. In the realm of education, Dr. Vrushali Dabke is the Sanchalika (head) of 'Shree Mudra Kala Niketan,' an academy that imparts training in Kathak and other arts. She also serves as the chief faculty of dance at the Dombivili branch of Sanskar Bharati. Her academic contributions include a Sangeetacharya degree (equivalent to a PhD) and she is currently pursuing a second PhD. She is the author of 'Laymanjiri,' a Marathi book featuring life sketches of over 100 classical music artists. Dr. Dabke frequently serves as an expert and judge on panels for various dance competitions. Awards & Honours: Late Lilatai Vartak Smruti Uttung Shastriya Nritya Naipunya Puraskar (2008), Rotary Excellence Award, Prize in Mood Indigo Dance competition (2003), Adarsha Dombivlikar award (2014).