Jasmine Shah

🪔 About

Jasmine Shah is a renowned Indian classical dance teacher, choreographer, and institution head based in the New England area, USA. She received her foundational training in Bharatanatyam and Manipuri at 'Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan' in Mumbai, India. Her dance education was further enriched by studying under notable choreographers such as Niranjana Bhargava, Leela Bhansali, and her aunt, Kokila Choksi. Driven by a passion for dance that runs in her family, Shah established the Aangikam Dance Academy in 1982. Over more than 25 years, she has taught and mentored over 2,000 students across multiple locations in the New England area, fostering a deep appreciation for Indian culture and heritage. The academy's curriculum encompasses Bharatanatyam, Manipuri, and various Indian folk dances, with Bollywood dances also added due to popular demand. Many of her students have been inspired to pursue dance professionally, with some even establishing their own dance schools. Beyond her role as an educator, Shah is an accomplished performer, director, and choreographer. She has conceptualized and produced numerous theme-based dance dramas rooted in Indian mythology, including acclaimed productions like Ramayana, Krishna Leela, Meerabai, and Shakuntala. Her artistic versatility also extends to acting, having performed in various dramas and skits for the Indian community in the US. Shah's contributions to the arts and community have been widely recognized. She received the Lifetime Achievement Award from INDIA New England News in 2016 for her significant impact in promoting Indian arts and culture. She has also served in leadership roles for community organizations, including as a former president of the Gujarati Association of New England, and has been an art counselor for the New Hampshire Art Council for over 25 years. Through her academy and extensive community involvement, Jasmine Shah continues to be a powerful presence in New England's classical and folk dance scene, dedicated to preserving and promoting India's rich dance traditions. Awards & Honours: Lifetime Achievement Award (2016).