Famous Indian Dancers

Vani Ganapathy is a renowned Indian classical dancer known for her expertise in the art form. She has made significant contributions to the world of dance through her performances and choreography. With a career spanning many years, Vani has established herself as a prominent figure in the Indian classical dance scene. She has garnered acclaim for her graceful movements, expressive storytelling, and innovative choreography. Vani's dedication to preserving and promoting Indian classical dance has earned her a respected place in the dance community.

Raghav Juyal is a versatile Indian performer known for his skills as an actor, dancer, choreographer, and television presenter. His unique dance style, particularly in slow motion, has earned him the titles of "Crockroaxz" and the "King of Slow Motion." He gained popularity through his appearances on various dance reality shows, including Dance India Dance and Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi. Juyal showcased his acting talent in the Hindi-action thriller Kill, receiving acclaim for his portrayal of the lead villain, Fani.

Terence Lewis is a versatile Indian dancer, singer, and choreographer known for his expertise in the realm of dance. He has judged popular reality dance shows like Dance India Dance and Nach Baliye, showcasing his keen eye for talent. Operating his own dance company, he conducts workshops worldwide and has made a significant impact in the Bollywood industry through his choreography in films such as Lagaan and Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela. With a diverse portfolio including musicals, stage shows, ads, and music videos, Terence Lewis has solidified his reputation as a prominent figure in the dance industry.

Pandit Birju Maharaj was an acclaimed Indian dancer, composer, singer, and exponent of the Lucknow "Kalka-Bindadin" Gharana of Kathak dance. He was a prominent figure in the world of classical Indian arts, known for his mastery in Kathak and Hindustani classical music. He played a significant role in promoting and preserving the traditional dance form, leading the Kathak Kendra in New Delhi and later establishing his own dance school, Kalashram. His contributions earned him the prestigious Padma Vibhushan award in 1986.

Rukmini Devi Arundale was a prominent figure in Indian history, known for her contributions to the revival of Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance form. She played a pivotal role in transforming Bharatanatyam from its original 'sadhir' style associated with temple dancers to a more respectable art form. Rukmini Devi also advocated for the re-establishment of traditional Indian arts and crafts. Her efforts led to the acceptance and appreciation of Bharatanatyam among Indian elites and the removal of its perceived eroticism. She received several prestigious awards for her dedication to Indian classical arts.

Mrinalini Sarabhai was a renowned Indian classical dancer, choreographer, and instructor known for her significant contributions to the world of performing arts. She founded and directed the Darpana Academy of Performing Arts in Ahmedabad, offering training in dance, drama, music, and puppetry. Throughout her career, she received prestigious awards such as the Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri for her outstanding achievements in the field of art. Her professional life was marked by a deep commitment to promoting and preserving Indian cultural traditions through her artistic endeavors.

Mallika Sarabhai is a renowned Indian classical dancer, actress, and activist known for using the arts as a tool for social change. Specializing in Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam dance forms, she has established herself as a skilled performer with a focus on transformation through her artistic expressions. With a career dedicated to advocating for important social causes, Mallika Sarabhai has gained recognition for her impactful work in promoting awareness and driving positive change through her performances and activism.

Remo D'Souza is a highly accomplished Indian choreographer, film director, and producer based in Mumbai. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, he has choreographed more than 100 films, establishing himself as a leading figure in Bollywood. Widely recognized as the most successful choreographer in the industry, D'Souza has inspired many with his work. He has also been a prominent judge on the popular dance reality show Dance Plus for seven consecutive seasons, showcasing his expertise and influence in the world of dance.

Vaibhavi Merchant is a prominent Indian dance choreographer known for her work in Bollywood films. She has achieved widespread recognition for her exceptional choreography skills, particularly winning the National Film Award for Best Choreography in 1999 for the song Dholi Taaro Dhol Baaje from the film Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. With a career focused on bringing vibrant and captivating dance sequences to the big screen, Vaibhavi Merchant continues to be a respected figure in the Indian film industry.

Kala Master, an Indian choreographer, is renowned for her work as the director and judge on the Indian reality dance show, Maanada Mayilada. Her talent was recognized with a National Film Award for Best Choreography in 2000 for her folk dance sequences in the Malayalam film, Kochu Kochu Santhoshangal. Kala is proficient in classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, and Kathak. With a successful career spanning various dance genres, she continues to inspire and entertain audiences with her expertise and creativity in the world of dance.

Sonal Mansingh is a renowned Indian classical dancer and Guru specializing in Bharatanatyam and Odissi styles. She has achieved significant recognition for her contributions to the field of dance, including being honored with the Padma Bhushan in 1992 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2003. In addition to her dance career, Mansingh has been nominated by the President of India to serve as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha. Her professional life is marked by a deep commitment to preserving and promoting traditional Indian dance forms.

Yamini Krishnamurthy is a renowned Indian dancer specializing in Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi styles. With a career spanning decades, she has captivated audiences worldwide with her graceful performances and impeccable artistry. Krishnamurthy has received numerous accolades and awards for her contributions to the field of classical dance. She is known for her expressive storytelling, intricate footwork, and emotive expressions that have earned her a distinguished reputation as one of the foremost exponents of Indian classical dance.

Balasaraswati was an influential Indian dancer renowned for her Bharatanatyam performances. She played a key role in popularizing this classical dance form, both in India and worldwide. Throughout her career, she received prestigious awards such as the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan from the Government of India, as well as recognition from institutions like the Madras Music Academy and The Indian Fine Arts Society, Chennai. Her talent and dedication to Bharatanatyam left a lasting impact on the dance world.

Saroj Khan was a pioneering Indian dance choreographer in Hindi cinema, renowned for her expertise in the dance form mujra. As the first woman choreographer in Bollywood, she left an indelible mark on the industry with a career spanning over forty years. With her exceptional talent, she choreographed over 3000 songs, showcasing her versatility and creativity in the world of Indian cinema. Saroj Khan's contributions to the art of dance and entertainment continue to be celebrated and remembered by fans and industry professionals alike.

Prabha is a renowned Indian actress and Kuchipudi dancer hailing from Andhra Pradesh. With an impressive career spanning over various film industries including Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada, she has showcased her talent in approximately 125 films. Collaborating with esteemed actors like N. T. Rama Rao and Akkineni Nageswara Rao, Prabha has left a lasting impact on the Tollywood industry. Her exceptional performances have earned her two prestigious Nandi Awards, solidifying her reputation as a versatile and accomplished artist.

Vidhya Mohan is an Indian actress known for her work in the Malayalam and Tamil film and television industry. She has made a mark with her versatile performances in various projects. Vidhya has showcased her acting skills in a range of roles, earning critical acclaim and a strong fan following. With a career spanning both film and television, she has established herself as a talented and dedicated artist. Vidhya's contributions to the industry have garnered attention and admiration from audiences and peers alike.

Isha Sharvani is an accomplished Indian contemporary dancer and actress known for her unique style and expertise in Indian contemporary and aerial dance forms. Along with her successful dance career, she has made a mark in the film industry by starring in Bollywood, Malayalam, and Tamil movies. Sharvani's performances are admired for their creativity and grace, showcasing her versatility as both a dancer and actress. Her professional journey reflects a commitment to artistic excellence and a passion for pushing boundaries in the entertainment world.

Gauhar Jaan, an Indian singer and dancer from Kolkata, made significant contributions to the music industry. Known as "the Gramophone girl" and "the first recording superstar of India," Jaan was among the first artists to record music on 78 rpm records. She popularized Hindustani classical music genres like thumri, dadra, kajri, and tarana through over 600 recorded songs in ten languages from 1902 to 1920. Her work was instrumental in showcasing Indian music to a broader audience and establishing her as a prominent figure in the industry.

Mayadhar Raut is a prominent Indian classical Odissi dancer, choreographer, and Guru with a distinguished career spanning several decades. Known for his exceptional artistry and innovative choreography, Raut has made significant contributions to the field of Odissi dance. He has trained numerous students and disciples, shaping the next generation of dancers. Raut's performances have captivated audiences worldwide, earning him acclaim and recognition as a master of his craft. His dedication to preserving and promoting Odissi dance has cemented his legacy as a leading figure in the dance community.

Sonu Satheesh Kumar, also known as Sonu, is an Indian actress and classical dancer primarily active in Malayalam and Tamil television serials. She gained fame through the TV show Vaalkkannadi and is recognized for her roles in Sthreedhanam and Anbe Vaa. Well-versed in Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi, she has showcased her talent in various dance shows and festivals. With a Master's in Kuchipudi and a diploma in Bharatanatyam, she conducts dance workshops and is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Kuchipudi. Sonu is also a UGC NET qualified dance teacher at Sai Shivam School of Dance.

Paris Laxmi is a multi-talented dancer and actress known for her work in Kerala, India. Alongside her husband, Kathakali dancer Pallippuram Sunil, she co-manages the Kalashakti School of Arts in Vaikom. Paris Laxmi has made significant contributions to the world of dance and acting, showcasing her skills and passion through various performances and projects. Her expertise and dedication have helped her establish a strong presence in the industry, earning her recognition and respect among peers and audiences alike.

Kelucharan Mohapatra was a legendary Indian classical dancer known for his mastery and contribution to Odissi dance. He played a pivotal role in reviving and popularizing this classical dance form in the 20th century. Mohapatra's professional life was marked by his dedication to preserving and innovating Odissi dance, earning him widespread recognition as a guru and exponent of the art. He received prestigious accolades such as the Padma Vibhushan for his significant contributions to the cultural heritage of Odisha, showcasing his unparalleled skill and artistry in the realm of classical dance.

Uday Shankar was an influential Indian dancer and choreographer known for developing a unique fusion style of dance that combined European theatrical techniques with Indian classical, folk, and tribal dance elements. He popularized this innovative style in India, Europe, and the United States during the 1920s and 1930s, establishing himself as a pioneer of modern dance in India. His contributions to the dance world were acknowledged with prestigious awards such as the Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship and the Padma Vibhushan, recognizing his significant achievements and lifetime dedication to the art form.

Kumari Kamala, also known as Kamala Lakshman, is a renowned Indian dancer and actress. Beginning her career as a child dancer, she went on to appear in nearly 100 Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, and Kannada films. In the 1970s, she transitioned into teaching the Vazhuvoor style of dance, where she specializes. Kamala's professional journey showcases her versatility and expertise in both performing arts and dance education, leaving a lasting impact on the Indian entertainment industry.

Bishnu Prasad Rabha was an influential Indian cultural figure from Assam, recognized for his significant contributions in music, dance, painting, literature, and political activism. A champion of the people's cultural movement, he skillfully integrated classical and folk traditions into his work. Revered as the 'Kalaguru' by the Assamese people, he was also known as 'Sainik Silpi' by Marxists for his involvement in the armed struggle led by the Revolutionary Communist Party of India (RCPI). His professional life was dedicated to promoting and advancing the rich cultural heritage of Assam through various art forms.

Sashimani Debi was a Mahari or Devdasi of Jagannath temple, serving as the “human consort” of Lord Jagannath. Initiated into temple service at a young age, she became a "living wife" of the deity at 12 years old. Sashimani dedicated her life to caring for Lord Jagannath, as one of around 25 women entrusted with this duty. She was the last living Mahari at the temple, fulfilling her role with reverence and devotion until the end of her days.

Indrani Rahman was a renowned Indian classical dancer proficient in various dance forms such as Bharata Natyam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, and Odissi. She gained international recognition for her exceptional talent and artistry, particularly popularizing Odissi during her travels abroad. Winning the Miss India pageant in 1952 and representing India in the inaugural Miss Universe pageant further elevated her profile. Her contributions to the performing arts were acknowledged with prestigious awards like the Padma Shri and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, solidifying her legacy as a trailblazer in the world of dance.

Jason Tham is a versatile Indian performer known for his talents in dance, choreography, and acting. He gained prominence as a contestant on the reality dance show Just Dance in India. Additionally, he showcased his acting skills by portraying the character Karma on the dance-based series Dil Dosti Dance on Channel V. Tham's professional journey reflects his dedication to the performing arts, where he continues to captivate audiences with his dynamic performances and artistic expressions across various platforms.

Ram Gopal was an influential Indian dancer and choreographer known for his innovative blend of classical Indian dance with balletic choreography. He gained recognition for being among the first to introduce Indian classical dance to Western audiences in the 1930s. Renowned for his solo performances and extensive touring, he was praised for his modernist approach to dance. His notable productions include Legend of the Taj Mahal, Dance of the Setting Sun, and Dances of India. His collaboration with British ballerina Dame Alicia Markova on "Radha-Krishna" in 1960 was particularly acclaimed.