Bhairavi Kumar and Troupe
Los Angeles
Bhairavi Kumar, a luminary in the world of classical Indian dance, epitomizes the essence of Kathak through her multifaceted artistry as a dancer, choreographer, and instructor. She began her training under the guidance of Smt. Shiveni Pandya, shagird of Pt. Lacchu Maharaji. Bhairavi Kumar continued her training and became a Gandha Bandhan shagird of Vidushi Uma Dogra, disciple of Pt. Durgalalji.
Her illustrious career has been adorned with several accolades, including the Raas Ratna Award from the Hindustan Arts & Music Society, Calcutta where she was awarded an honorary doctorate for her valuable contribution in the field of arts, culture, and music. She also received the distinguished gold medal and Menaka trophy at Bombay University. Her performances have graced stages worldwide enriching audiences at venues like NCPA, ISKCON, the Malhar Festival, and the Kaleidoscope Festival.
Bhairavi Kumar established the Nrityodaya Kathak Academy of Los Angeles in 1989 as a sanctuary of the arts devoted to preserving the culture of Kathak dance and classical Indian art. Taking the gracefulness of the Lucknow Gharana and vigor of the Jaipur Gharana, the dance style she formed is a unique and captivating blend. Her influence resonates through her mentorship of seven shagirds, who take her legacy of Kathak into the future. Under Bhairavi’s guidance, NKA has hosted legends like Pt. Birju Maharaj, Smt. Jayanti Mala, and Pt. Rajendra Gangani. The academy’s performances from bi-annual productions to the stages of the San Jose SAP Center and the Los Angeles County Museum of Arts have charmed audiences.