Kamalini Asthana

🪔 About

Kamalini Asthana is a distinguished Indian classical Kathak dancer, renowned for her contributions to the Benaras Gharana style, often performing as part of a celebrated sister duo with Nalini Asthana. Born in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, and raised in Delhi, Kamalini's artistic journey began in 1973 when she, alongside her sister, commenced training under Guru Jitendra Maharaj of the Benaras Gharana. Their arangetram, or debut performance, took place in Kochi, Kerala, in the same year. In 1975, Kamalini and Nalini co-founded the Sangeetka Institute of Performing Arts in Delhi, an institution dedicated to imparting training in Kathak and classical music. Over five decades, Kamalini Asthana has developed a Kathak style recognized for its elegance, depth, and expressive power, expanding the dance form through mythological productions and innovative choreographies that offer powerful interpretations of spiritual and literary themes. The duo has played a significant role in popularizing the Benaras Gharana style of Kathak both within India and internationally. Their extensive global performances have reached audiences worldwide, with early international tours including a two-and-a-half-year stint in Europe starting in 1983, with performances in Paris, Torremolinos, Madrid, Dublin, and London. They have also presented lecture-demonstrations at numerous educational institutions globally and created a film titled “Voyage of Kathak” for The Inner London Education Authority (ILEA). Notably, they set a record by performing Kathak at an altitude of 18,000 feet at Kailash Mansarovar and Badrinath. Kamalini Asthana's work extends beyond performance to encompass research, education, and cultural awareness. She has actively encouraged young performers and supported talented students from underprivileged backgrounds through workshops, youth initiatives, and scholarship programs. Her contributions also include cultural documentation, research projects, dance therapy initiatives, and educational programs that integrate dance with social and academic themes. Awards & Honours: Padma Shri (2022).