Smt. Shika Harrypaul

🪔 About

Smt. Shika Harrypaul is a prominent Kathak dancer, teacher, and author based in South Africa. She commenced her Kathak training in 1999 at the Institute of Classical Music & Dance, Kala Darshan in Durban, under the tutelage of Shri Manesh Maharaj. Her rigorous individual training led to her graduation as a professional Kathak dancer in 2005, marked by her Rangmanch Pravesh, a memorable solo performance at the Kendra Hall in Durban. Following her graduation, Shika Harrypaul served as a senior dancer for Kala Darshan for nine years. In 2006, she authored "Kathak Darpan – A Reflection of Kathak," a book intended as a reference for Kathak students, which she launched with a solo recital. In June 2007, she relocated to Johannesburg and, recognizing a demand for pure Kathak, established Darpan Dance Studios in Randburg in 2008 with the support of her husband, Ashwin Harrypaul. Darpan Dance Studios, also known as Darpan Kathak Specialists, aims to foster appreciation and mastery of Kathak through classes, workshops, concerts, and examinations. Shika Harrypaul teaches her unique style, which blends Jaipur, Lucknow, and Benares Gharanas, across various locations in Gauteng, including Randburg, Midrand, Benoni, Fourways (Bryanston), and Roodepoort. She and her students have performed for numerous religious and charitable organizations in Durban, Cape Town, and Gauteng. Currently, she continues her advanced studies under Dr. Puru Dadheech and Pt. Mukandraj Deo. Beyond her performances and teaching, Shika Harrypaul is a passionate advocate for the formal inclusion of Indian classical dance, particularly Kathak, in South African school curricula, viewing it as a vehicle for discipline, resilience, and holistic development. Awards & Honours: Benoni Community achievement award for uplifting Hindu Culture through dance.