Amruta Todankar
Founder & Director
✦
About the Guru
A Journey of Dedication
Smt. Amruta Pawan Todankar
Founder & Director, Kathak Shades – The School of Kathak
Smt. Amruta Pawan Todankar is a dedicated Kathak artist, performer, teacher, and choreographer, carrying forward the tradition of Kathak with authenticity, grace, and devotion. A disciple of Guru Smt. Manasi Deshpande Ji, she has devoted over 25 years to learning, performing, and teaching this classical art form.
Journey & Achievements
- Founder & Director of Kathak Shades – The School of Kathak, dedicated to preserving and promoting the classical richness of Kathak.
- Over 25+ years of Kathak training and 16+ years of teaching experience.
- Holds qualifications of Visharad (Vishesh Yogyata), Alankar, B.A., and M.A. in Kathak.
- Completed the Dance Teacher Training Program at Kafqa Academy.
- Trained students across India and abroad, many achieving distinctions in Gandharva examinations.
- Served as a Kathak mentor at reputed institutions including Billabong High International School, EuroSchool, Yellow Light School, and Red Arrows Institute.
- Performed at prestigious cultural platforms and festivals including Natyanjali, Girnar Festival, Yatra Festival, Oasis of Kathak, ISKCON Temple, Varsa, Hamari Mehfil, and Atharvosav.
- Received the Nritya Nipun Award at Atharvosav.
- Created “Samarpan”, a signature thematic Kathak production.
- Authored “नृत्यारंभ”, a beginner-friendly foundation book on Kathak.
- Through BE Event Management, curates and choreographs stage productions, annual showcases, corporate events, and cultural programmes.
Teaching Philosophy
"Kathak is not just a dance—it’s a dialogue with tradition. I believe in nurturing each student’s unique artistic voice while maintaining the purity and authenticity of this classical heritage."