Ruchi Saini

🪔 About

Ruchi Saini is a distinguished Kathak dancer and art educator, deeply rooted in the Kalka Bindadin (Lucknow) Gharana. She is a devoted disciple of the eminent Kathak Maestro, Late Guru Munna Shukla, under whom she trained for 14 years in the traditional Guru-Shishya Parampara, absorbing knowledge beyond formal lessons. Saini's artistic journey spans over two decades, encompassing performance, curation, teaching, and filmmaking. Her dance is characterized by a holistic philosophy that nurtures body, mind, and spirit, emphasizing inner strength, depth, and refined expression. Born in Rajasthan and raised in Khetri Nagar, Saini's early exposure to folk traditions influenced her artistic sensibilities. She holds a post-graduate degree in Textile Design from the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), New Delhi, a parallel passion she has integrated into her artistic pursuits. Her textile design work, inspired by bird wings, was once selected for the interiors of Indian Airlines Airbus A320 aircraft. Based in New Delhi, India, Ruchi Saini conducts individual and group Kathak classes for all age groups, as well as immersive workshops both nationally and internationally. She is the Director of the Performing Arts Department at Saraswati Music College. Saini is also a filmmaker, dedicating herself to preserving and presenting her Guru's subtle genius through documentaries like "Arpan" (2012), "Music in the Mundane" (2022), "Aakaar Prakaar" (2023), and "The Kettle & The Cup" (2025). Her project 'Ahaetuki – The Grace of a Master' is a heartfelt endeavor to carry forward her Guru's artistic legacy. She also curates collaborative events such as 'Stillness & Movement' and 'Samanvay - A Symphony of Arts', fostering dialogue across various art forms. Awards & Honours: Dharitri Shikhar Samman (2018), 'A' Grade Artist (2018), Saraswati Yuva Samman Award (2010).