Shika Mohanlall

🪔 About

Shika Mohanlall Harrypaul, a prominent Kathak exponent, performer, and teacher, has significantly contributed to the propagation of Indian classical dance in South Africa. Her journey in Kathak began in 1999 at the Institute of Classical Music & Dance, Kala Darshan in Durban, where she received rigorous training under the tutelage of Shri Manesh Maharaj. Mohanlall Harrypaul's unique style is a blend of the Jaipur, Lucknow, and Benares Gharanas, reflecting the diverse influences of her guru. In 2005, she marked her graduation as a professional Kathak dancer with a memorable solo performance, her Rangmanch Pravesh, at the Kendra Hall in Durban. Following her graduation, Shika Mohanlall Harrypaul continued to perform extensively, taking on lead roles in acclaimed dance productions such as "Utsav" (2000), "Dance Of The Gods" (2002), "Sur Singaar" (2003), "Krishnaleela" (2004), "Dancing Ragas" (2005), and "Geet Milan" (2006). In 2006, she authored "Kathak Darpan – A Reflection of Kathak," a reference book for Kathak students, which she launched with a solo dance recital. In 2007, Shika Mohanlall Harrypaul relocated to Johannesburg, where she identified a strong demand for pure Kathak. This led her to establish Darpan Dance Studios in Randburg in 2008, with the support of her husband, Ashwin Harrypaul, and the Randburg Hindu Cultural Society. As the head of Darpan Dance Studios, she has been instrumental in teaching and inspiring a new generation of dancers. She also serves as a resident adjudicator for the dance category in the Gauteng Annual Hindi Eisteddfods. Shika Mohanlall Harrypaul continues to deepen her understanding of Kathak, currently learning from Dr. Puru Dadheech and Pt. Mukandraj Deo. Her dedication to the art form extends to performing for various religious and charitable organizations across Durban, Cape Town, and Gauteng.