Mallika Sarabhai

🪔 About

Mallika Sarabhai, born on May 9, 1953, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, is a renowned Indian classical dancer, choreographer, actress, writer, and social activist. She is the daughter of legendary classical dancer Mrinalini Sarabhai and distinguished space scientist Vikram Sarabhai. Mallika received her Bharatanatyam training from her mother, Mrinalini Sarabhai, and also under Kittappa Pillai. She trained in Kuchipudi under Guru C.R. Acharyelu and also learned Mohiniyattam and folk dances. She earned a B.A. in Economics from St. Xavier's College, Ahmedabad, in 1972, an M.B.A. from the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad, in 1974, and a Ph.D. in Organisational Behaviour from Gujarat University in 1976. Sarabhai became a professional performer after her education and took over the leadership of the Darpana Academy of Performing Arts in 1977, an institution founded by her parents in 1949. She has since served as its co-director for several decades. Mallika is celebrated for her innovative approach to classical dance, using it as a powerful medium for social change and transformation, particularly focusing on women's rights, human rights, and environmental issues. Her notable works include "Shakti: The Power of Women" (1989) and "Sita's Daughters." She gained international recognition for her portrayal of Draupadi in Peter Brook's stage adaptation of "The Mahabharata," which toured globally from 1984 to 1989. Beyond dance, she has acted in films and television, written scripts, and published articles and books. Awards & Honours: Padma Bhushan (2010), Knight's rank in the Order of Academic Palms (French Government) (2005), Gaurav Puraskar (1992), Best Actress Award for Gujarati films (1975), Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for Creative Dance (1999), Golden Star Award for Best Dance Soloist, Theatre De Champs Elysees, Paris (1977), Crystal Award at Davos (World Economic Forum) (2009).