About Us

  1. Home
  2. Pages
  3. About

Great dancers transcend technique; their greatness lies in the fiery passion that fuels their every move. Through their art, the body speaks a language beyond words, conveying emotions that the tongue could never capture.

about The Dance Teacher

Twinkle Sharma, She has been teaching Kathak and Bharatanatyam since 2008

In a world where women often face societal pressures to conform to traditional roles, the inspiring journey of Miss Twinkle serves as a powerful testament to resilience and determination. Born and raised in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India, Twinkle began her dance training at the tender age of five under the guidance of her maternal grandmother. Over the next six years, she honed her skills, ultimately performing her first stage dance at the age of six. This early success set the stage for a remarkable career, culminating in a performance before Russian President Mikhail Gorbachev at the cultural house of the Russian Embassy when she was eighteen. Twinkle's talent did not go unnoticed; she quickly became a celebrated figure in her hometown (Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India), gaining recognition through numerous newspaper features and television appearances. Her prowess in dance earned her accolades, including the prestigious Nritya Guruvarya Awards and the Top 100 Women Icon Award. However, her life took a dramatic turn when she married at twenty-one, coinciding with her with household chores . In the midst of family obligations, she paused her artistic pursuits to care for him, temporarily sidelining her dreams. Following her household responsibilities, Twinkle faced a pivotal moment. Rather than allowing her ambitions to remain dormant, she resolved to revive her passion for dance. Demonstrating remarkable entrepreneurial spirit, she established two dance academies—"Shri Natraj Nritya Academy"—in different cities, where she began teaching Kathak to aspiring dancers. Twinkle's dedication to her craft and her commitment to empowering women became a driving force in her life. She emerged as a role model, challenging the patriarchal norms that dictate women's roles in society. Twinkle's story highlights the theme of perseverance in the face of adversity. Despite the societal expectation for women to prioritize household responsibilities after marriage, she proved that it is possible to pursue one's passions and achieve professional success. Her journey is a vivid illustration of how women can balance multiple roles while continuing to strive for their dreams. Twinkle's achievements resonate beyond her personal success; they serve as an inspiration for countless women who may feel constrained by societal norms. Her narrative underscores the importance of self-belief and hard work, illustrating that dreams can be fulfilled regardless of life's challenges. As she continues to mentor young dancers, Twinkle not only preserves the art of dance but also fosters a new generation of empowered women ready to break free from societal limitations. In conclusion, Miss Twinkle's life story is a compelling narrative of hope, resilience, and triumph over adversity, emphasizing that with determination and courage, anyone can overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams, regardless of the circumstances they face."

We provide certified Courses in Performing Arts kathak , Bharatanatyam , fine Arts under pracheen kala kendra .

Image

about her guiding light

Pandit Govardhan Maharaj, has been the first Guru and ultimate Guiding Light

My journey into the mesmerizing world of Indian classical dance began with a stroke of divine fortune under the profound guidance of my first guru, the illustrious Pandit Govardhan Maharaj of Haridwar. Renowned across the nation as a master of Kathak, his presence radiates the essence of tradition, discipline, and boundless creativity. His teachings went far beyond the rhythmic patterns and intricate footwork; they delved deep into the soul of the art form, unveiling its spiritual and emotional depths. Pandit Govardhan Maharaj approached every lesson with unmatched passion and precision, leaving an indelible mark on my heart and mind. His gentle yet firm guidance taught me that Kathak is not merely a dance but a dialogue—a profound conversation between the dancer, the divine, and the audience. Under his watchful eyes, I learned to weave stories through movement, to balance grace with power, and to harmonize discipline with the spontaneity that breathes life into every performance. It is impossible to overstate the impact of his mentorship on my journey. Every spin, every beat, and every gesture I execute carries the imprint of his wisdom. His teachings have not only shaped my skills but enriched my soul, providing me with a lens through which to view life itself—as a rhythm, a melody, and a story waiting to unfold. I am eternally indebted to Pandit Govardhan Maharaj for sharing this priceless legacy with me. His influence continues to illuminate my path, inspiring me to honor the tradition he so lovingly imparted and to ensure that the flame of Kathak remains vibrant for future generations. It is my life's mission to share this art with the same passion, precision, and reverence that he bestowed upon me.

Image

about her guiding light

Geetanjali Lal, has been the guiding Maa

At the heart of my journey in Indian classical dance lies the profound mentorship of my Guru Maa, Smt. Geetanjali Lal, a renowned Kathak maestro celebrated worldwide for her contributions to the art form. As one of the leading exponents of the Jaipur Gharana of Kathak, her dedication to preserving and innovating this timeless tradition is unparalleled. Her expertise in abhinaya, intricate rhythmic footwork, and emotive storytelling has left an indelible mark on my artistic growth. Smt. Geetanjali Lal’s illustrious career spans decades, enriched by her training under legendary figures such as Pandit Gopi Krishna and Roshan Kumari. She has held esteemed positions, including Chief of Repertory and Director at Kathak Kendra, and is a top-grade artist with Doordarshan and ICCR. Her achievements include the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, as well as numerous other accolades such as “Nritya Sharda”, “Bharat Gaurav” and “Kalpana Chawla Award.” Her choreographic brilliance has been showcased globally, blending traditional themes with contemporary narratives. Under her guidance, I have had the privilege of honing my skills through workshops and performances across Delhi and various other regions in India. These experiences have profoundly shaped my artistic journey, instilling discipline, creativity, and a deep reverence for Kathak. Guru Maa’s influence has not only elevated my craft but also enriched my understanding of the cultural and spiritual essence of this dance form. It is with heartfelt gratitude that I dedicate this platform to honoring her mentorship and her relentless efforts in keeping the flame of Kathak alive for generations to come. Her teachings inspire me every day to strive for excellence and share the beauty of Indian classical dance with the world.

Image

about her guiding light

Workshops under the guidance of Shri Rajendra Gangani Ji

The art of Kathak is not just a dance form; it is a storytelling tradition steeped in Indian culture and spirituality. Under the tutelage of the illustrious Shri Rajendra Gangani Ji, I, Twinkle Sharma, had the privilege to explore and experience the profound depths of this classical dance form. Shri Gangani Ji, a distinguished exponent of the Jaipur Gharana of Kathak, is celebrated globally for his mastery, innovation, and devotion to preserving the cultural tapestry of India. His brilliance has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, which honors his exceptional contributions to the performing arts. Shri Gangani Ji’s teachings transcend mere technique, embodying the soul of Kathak. His workshops provided me with not only a refined understanding of rhythm and expression but also a deeper connection to the stories and emotions that Kathak brings to life. His ability to merge tradition with a contemporary perspective inspired me to embrace this art form with reverence and creativity. I had the privilege of participating in his workshops across various cities, including Jaipur, Udaipur, and the renowned Delhi Kala Kendra. Each location became a canvas for learning, where Shri Gangani Ji shared his vast knowledge and helped nurture my artistic journey. These experiences were not just about dance but about imbibing the discipline, passion, and spiritual essence that Kathak represents. Shri Rajendra Gangani Ji’s influence has left an indelible mark on my growth as a performer and an individual. I owe my artistic evolution and deeper appreciation of Indian classical arts to his unwavering support and meticulous guidance. It is with immense gratitude and admiration that I dedicate this space to express my heartfelt thanks to Shri Rajendra Gangani Ji for his invaluable mentorship. His teachings have not only shaped my journey but also instilled in me the responsibility to honor and perpetuate the rich heritage of Kathak for future generations.

Image

about her guiding light

Dilip Shah, has been the mentor and the second guru

As I reflect on my journey in the realm of Indian classical dance, I am filled with immense gratitude for the mentors who have guided me along the way. Among them, Shri Dilip Shah Ji holds a special place in my heart as my revered second guru of Kathak and Indian classical dance. A luminary in the world of Indian classical dance, Shri Dilip Shah Ji is a name synonymous with excellence, dedication, and passion. His illustrious career, spanning decades, has been marked by an unwavering commitment to the preservation and propagation of India's rich cultural heritage. I am deeply fortunate to have had the privilege of learning from this esteemed guru. His mentorship has not only honed my skills as a dancer but has also instilled in me a profound appreciation for the nuances and intricacies of Indian classical dance. Shri Dilip Shah Ji's impact on my life extends far beyond the realm of dance. His guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support have been a constant source of inspiration, motivating me to push beyond my limits and strive for excellence. I am particularly grateful for his presence in my life during pivotal moments, including my participation in Talent Hunt 2020. His blessings, guidance, and active involvement in my events have been invaluable, and I am forever indebted to him for his selfless support. As I continue on my journey, I am reminded of the profound impact that Shri Dilip Shah Ji has had on my life. I hope to honor his legacy by emulating his values of dedication, perseverance, and passion, and by sharing the knowledge and wisdom he has imparted to me with future generations. In closing, I offer my heartfelt gratitude to Shri Dilip Shah Ji for being an integral part of my journey. His influence has shaped me into the person I am today, and I am eternally grateful for his presence in my life.

Image

about her guiding light

Workshop under Kathak Maestro Smt. Vidha Lal Ji

The art of Kathak is a timeless tradition, blending storytelling, rhythm, and spiritual expression. My journey into this exquisite world was profoundly shaped by the guidance of Smt. Vidha Lal, an iconic figure in Indian classical dance. Known for her extraordinary talent and dedication to preserving the Jaipur Gharana, Smt. Vidha Lal is celebrated for her impeccable technique, innovative choreographies, and global contributions to Kathak. As an empanelled artist of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and an ‘A’ grade performer for Doordarshan, Smt. Vidha Lal has showcased Kathak on some of the most prestigious stages worldwide. Her performances at the Khajuraho Dance Festival, Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, and international events in Paris, New York, Vienna, and beyond have left audiences spellbound. She has earned countless accolades, including the Sri Krishna Gana Sabha Endowment Award, and set a Guinness World Record with an astonishing 103 spins in one minute—a testament to her technical mastery and creative spirit. Under her mentorship, I, Twinkle Sharma, have had the privilege of participating in multiple workshops across Delhi and other cities in India. Each session was a revelation, deepening my understanding of the intricate rhythms, graceful movements, and emotive storytelling that define Kathak. Smt. Vidha Lal’s personalized teaching approach nurtured not just my skills but also my connection to the art’s rich heritage. Her teachings go beyond the steps and spins of dance; they are imbued with life lessons about discipline, dedication, and artistic integrity. Her ability to blend traditional techniques with contemporary perspectives inspired me to explore new horizons while staying rooted in the classical ethos. From Delhi’s vibrant cultural hubs to serene workshops in other cities, every moment under her guidance was transformative, instilling in me a profound respect for this ancient art form. Smt. Vidha Lal’s illustrious career is marked by her pioneering spirit and relentless passion for Kathak. Her international tours have brought Indian classical dance to audiences across France, Germany, the USA, Canada, and Singapore, among many other countries, spreading the essence of Kathak to a global audience. She has performed for esteemed occasions, including a special choreography at Rashtrapati Bhavan in honor of foreign dignitaries and celebrations marking the 150th birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore. It is with immense gratitude and admiration that I dedicate this platform to honor Smt. Vidha Lal’s invaluable contributions to my artistic journey and the larger realm of Indian classical dance. Her mentorship has not only shaped my craft but has also instilled a lifelong commitment to upholding and promoting the beauty of Kathak.

Image

about her guiding light

My Bharatanatyam Guru Smt. Marie Elangovan

Embarking on a transformative journey into the world of Bharatanatyam, I had the distinct honor of training under the esteemed Guru, Marie Elangovan. A distinguished disciple and daughter-in-law of the renowned Guru K. J. Govindarajan, Marie Elangovan has dedicated her life to the art of Bharatanatyam, earning acclaim as a performer, choreographer, and teacher. Born in Quebec, Canada, Marie's passion for Bharatanatyam was ignited during her university years. Captivated by the dance's beauty and spirituality, she made the courageous decision to immerse herself fully in its study, relocating to India in 1993. Embracing her new home, she seamlessly integrated into Indian culture, often referring to herself as a "Can-Indian." Marie Elangovan's dedication to Bharatanatyam is evident through her impressive credentials. She holds an M.A. degree in Bharatanatyam from Bangiya Sangeet Parishad, Rabindra Bharati University, where she was awarded a gold medal for her excellence. As an empaneled artist with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and an 'A' grade artist of Doordarshan, she has graced numerous prestigious stages both in India and internationally. Beyond performance, Marie has made significant contributions as a choreographer and educator. As the Artistic Director of the Parampara Centre for Indian Classical Music and Dance, she has crafted thematic productions addressing contemporary issues such as climate change, women's empowerment, and social harmony. Her innovative work "Save the Earth" was notably showcased at the 14th Conference of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Poznan, Poland. Under her meticulous guidance, I underwent 14 years of rigorous training, delving deep into the nuances of Bharatanatyam. Marie emphasized not only the technical precision of the dance form but also its expressive and emotive aspects, ensuring a holistic understanding of this classical art. Her teaching philosophy, rooted in tradition yet open to contemporary interpretations, has profoundly shaped my artistic journey. Training with Marie Elangovan has been an enlightening and enriching experience, instilling in me a profound respect for the art of Bharatanatyam and its cultural significance. Her unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation continues to inspire me as I carry forward the legacy of this timeless dance form.

All Rights Reserved. Twinkle Sharma 2025