Pranaame Bhagawati

🪔 About

Pranaame Bhagawati is a dynamic and versatile Indian classical danseuse, choreographer, author, and cultural activist, specializing in both Kathak and Sattriya dance forms. Born and raised in Guwahati, Assam, she began her dance training at the tender age of five. She received her initial Kathak tutelage from Guru Shri Bipul Das and her Sattriya training from Guru Jibonjit Dutta, continuing her studies until the age of 16. Bhagawati has garnered international acclaim, representing India in numerous countries including Germany, Dubai, UK, USA, Guyana, Tanzania, Maldives, Qatar, and Singapore. Her choreographies have been featured in prestigious festivals organized by various governmental bodies such as the Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Tourism, Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Sangeet Natak Akademi, and ICCR. Beyond her performance career, Pranaame Bhagawati is a dedicated cultural administrator and educator. She founded AMRAPALI (Society for ARTS) and Amrapali Magazine, initiatives aimed at promoting traditional culture, fostering international exchanges, and ensuring cultural sustainability. She has held significant leadership roles, including Regional Officer cum Consultant at the Guwahati Regional Office of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. As of 2023, she was appointed as the Director of Kathak Kendra (National Institute of Kathak Dance) in New Delhi, an autonomous body under the Sangeet Natak Akademi, Ministry of Culture, Government of India, a position she continues to hold as of 2024. She is also an author, with two books, 'KATHAK KALPIKA' and 'THE ART OF DANCING', under publication. Bhagawati is known for her lecture demonstrations, workshops, and writings on arts, culture, and heritage. She is married to Rudra Jayanta Bhagawati, also a dancer. Awards & Honours: Gold Medal for Kathak Dance (1997), Gold Medal for Kathak Dance (2002), Scholarship to Young Artists.