Harshita K.

🪔 About

Harshita Sharma is a distinguished Indian classical Kathak dancer, teacher, choreographer, and researcher, recognized as a torchbearer of the Dadheech Legacy. She received her initial Kathak training at a young age under the tutelage of Toolmoni Shri K.L. Bhatt and Smt. Bina Thakur, later completing her Diploma Honours at Kathak Kendra Delhi. She further honed her skills under the mentorship of legendary gurus Padmashri Dr. Puru Dadheech and Dr. Vibha Dadheech, who are also her parents-in-law. Harshita has also trained under Guru Dr. Swati Agarwal, from the lineage of Pt. Girdhari Maharaj. She holds multiple certifications from Bhatkhande Vidyapeeth, Pracheen Kala Kendra, and Gandharva Mahavidyalaya, and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Kathak from Sri Sri University, Cuttack. Harshita is known for her versatile and thoughtful dance, blending the Jaipur and Lucknow gharana styles of Kathak. Her performances showcase complex and intricate laykaris, including Toda, Tukdas, Parans, Paramelus, and various styles of Tatkar, alongside mesmerizing displays of 'Bhav' in Gatnikas, Maand, Thumri, Bhajans, and Katha Kathan. She has extensively researched ancient styles and movements within the Kathak repertoire, presenting rare and largely unknown forms of Kathak dance. A Doordarshan Graded Artist and a Ministry of Culture Scholar, Harshita has performed at numerous national-level programs and prestigious festivals across India, including the Republic Day Parade 2023 at Kartavya Path, New Delhi. As an educator, Harshita leads "Kathak by Harshita," an academy dedicated to preserving and spreading the authentic essence of Kathak. She mentors students globally through online and offline classes, offering structured courses from beginner to advanced levels, rooted in the traditional Guru-Shishya methodology. Her mission is to nurture not just skilled dancers but also disciplined individuals who appreciate the spiritual and emotional depth of Kathak. Awards & Honours: University Gold Medal (2023), NTA UGC NET (2023), Ministry of Culture Scholarship.