Kalyan Das

🪔 About

Pandit Kalyan Das was a distinguished Indian classical Kathak dancer, born on October 10, 1921, in Nawapara village of Janjgir district, India. His father, Kushal Das-Mahanta, was a musician proficient in Sarangi, fostering Kalyan Das's early interest in dance and music. He possessed a sweet voice in addition to his dancing talent. Kalyan Das received extensive training from several legendary Kathak gurus. His education in Kathak dance included tutelage under Pandit Jayalal Maharaj Ji, Shambhu Maharaj Ji (who taught him three taal and beauty), Narayan Prasad Ji (one tal), Achchan Maharaj Ji (Bhava), and Lachhu Maharaj Ji (Abhinaya). He also received higher education in tabla from Nathu Khan and trained in vocal forms such as Khyal, Thumri, Tappa, and Ghazal. His talent was recognized early when King Chakradhar Singh of Saargarh Darbar saw him dance and took him as a disciple. Kalyan Das performed at numerous All India Music Conferences, including those in Allahabad (1936), Meerut, Bareilly (1934), Raigad (1942), Delhi (1944), and Khairagarh, where he received awards. He was appointed as a Professor at Indira Kala Sangeet University Khairagarh in 1964 and also served as a Kathak dance teacher at the Chakradharnath Center in Bhopal. Towards the end of his life, he authored a book titled “Bhava Nritya.” He was honored with the highest award from the Culture Department of Madhya Pradesh. Awards & Honours: Award at All India Music Conferences, Highest honor from the Culture Department of Madhya Pradesh.