Maneesha Abhay

I was introduced to dance at a very early age, all thanks to may parents! I began my Kathak journey with Guru Jafar Mulla of the banaras Gharana of. I received the opportunity to represent India at a global level in Paris at the tender age of 12. Along with dance, I was also introduced to music, literature and even sports that I believe have helped shape my journey as a dancer.

 

 After my initial training with Mulla sir, I was introduced to Pune's very first dancer, Guru Rohini Ji. I went on to persuing my further education in Kathak with Pt. Guru Rohini Bhate. While I was training with her, I had already began teaching through my own institute, named "Mayuri Nrityalaya". Ofcourse with Rohini ji's permission I continued my teaching work, and she soon renamed my institute - "SUKRUTI" meaning 'a good deed'.

Her guidance and stylised performing technique made me efficient in the taal as well as abhinaya aspect of Kathak. I learnt with Rohini Ji for more than 20 years and also took my Masters degree in Kathak from the University of Pune.

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Being a vital part of Guru Rohini ji's choreographic work exposed me to the nuances and the strength of my art form. I toured all over India and abroad and have been able to share my art with many people all over the world.

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Through Sukruti, I have always tried to integrate the values of honesty and integrity towards my art and have maintained a creative balance in my work. A hardcore storyteller, I have always loved telling stories through movement. My choreographies are a testament to that. My dance has given me a way of life. It gives me immense joy to see the little seed that I planted in 1989 grow into a beautiful blooming tree. ​​​