Maithili Pundlik

🪔 About

Maithili Pundlik is a dedicated Kathak dancer and an emerging figure in Indian classical dance, based in Pune, India. She is a staff teacher at the esteemed Maneesha Nrityalaya and holds a unique position as the granddaughter and a devoted disciple of its founder, the renowned Kathak exponent Guru Pta. Maneesha Sathe. Maithili's journey in Kathak began at a very young age, having trained in the art form for over 15 years. For the past seven years, she has received intensive guidance and training directly from her grandmother, Guru Pta. Maneesha Sathe, ensuring a deep immersion in the Banaras Gharana tradition. Her commitment to Kathak is complemented by a strong academic background. Maithili earned her Bachelor's degree in Marathi language from Savitribai Phule Pune University. Further solidifying her expertise in dance, she completed her Alankar Poorna in Kathak from Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University's School of Performing Arts in Pune. Currently, she is pursuing her Master's degree in Kathak from the same institution, continually enhancing her theoretical and practical understanding of the art form. Since 2020, Maithili Pundlik has been an active staff teacher at Maneesha Nrityalaya, where she contributes to nurturing the next generation of Kathak dancers. She is also a prominent member of Maneesha Nrityalaya's Performing Troupe, showcasing her artistry at various national festivals and competitions. Her performance experience extends internationally, having graced stages in multiple countries across Europe and the USA, often performing alongside her mother, aunt, and grandmother, continuing a family legacy of dance. Maithili's talent has garnered significant accolades. She is a recipient of the prestigious CCRT Scholarship from the Government of India, a testament to her artistic merit. In 2020, her exceptional skills were further recognized when she was selected among the Top 5 dancers out of 15,000 artists in the SIFF YOUNG ARTISTE National Level Competition, marking her as a promising talent in the Indian classical dance landscape. Awards & Honours: CCRT Scholarship, Top 5 Dancers (SIFF YOUNG ARTISTE National Level Competition) (2020).