Nandini Singh

🪔 About

Nandini Singh is a highly esteemed Indian classical Kathak dancer, teacher, choreographer, and researcher, recognized as a leading exponent of the Jaipur Gharana. Born on June 7, 1952, she was introduced to the world of Kathak by her mother, the renowned singer Late Janaki Devi. Singh received extensive training from several legendary gurus, including Guru Hiralal, Guru Ganeshi Hiralal, and Pt. Sunder Prasad, who instilled in her the foundational nuances of the dance form. She further refined her artistry under the guidance of Pt. Devi Lal and Pt. Durga Lal. Singh made her debut performance as a teenager in the late 1960s at Smt. Niana Devi's Raag Rang conference, where her command of Kathak's intricate elements, such as whirlwind bhramaris, sharp tihaees, and difficult chakradhars, earned her significant acclaim. After a hiatus from dancing following her marriage in 1971, she made a notable comeback in 1986, resuming her career with renewed dedication. Her performances are celebrated for their exquisite balance of Nritta (pure dance), Abhinaya (expression), and lyrical beauty. She has performed extensively across India and internationally, including in Russia, the USA, the UK, Germany, and Sri Lanka, and has numerous choreographic works to her credit. Beyond her performing career, Nandini Singh is a dedicated educator. She has served as a Senior Guru at Sri Ram Bhartiya Kala Kendra in New Delhi for over two decades and has been a "Varistha Guru" at Kathak Kendra, New Delhi, where she also delivered theory lessons for senior students. In 1996, she founded "Vaasuki Natyashala," a charitable organization and dance institute in Delhi, accredited by Kathak Kendra as its west zone training center. Through her academy and various lecture-demonstrations, she actively works to spread awareness and appreciation for Kathak, teaching students the sensibilities and aesthetics of the dance. She also received a Senior Fellowship from the Government of India to conduct research on Parans in Kathak. Awards & Honours: Best Teacher award (1998), Chirag-e-Nau, Rajasthan Rang Manch award, Abhivyakti Kala Sangam award, Outstanding Woman of the Year award, Senior Fellowship, Pt Durga Lal Samman (2013).