Nishi Ratnam Shukla: The Essence of Expression

Nishi Ratnam Shukla brings Kathak to life in Bengaluru, where her passion for the Lucknow Gharana flows through every performance and into the hearts of her students.

Nishi Ratnam Shukla embodies the elegance and precision of the Lucknow Gharana of Kathak, deeply rooted in tradition. A Doordarshan-graded artist from Bengaluru, Nishi’s artistic journey is enriched by her academic excellence—a gold medalist from NIT Raipur and an MBA from ISB Hyderabad. Her Kathak mastery, honed under the tutelage of late Pt. Raghaw Sah, Vidushi Kajal Sharma, and Vidushi Mahua Shankar, reflects the lineage of Padmavibhushan Pt. Birju Maharaj. Nishi’s performances at prestigious festivals like Taj Mahotsav and Tarangini have captivated audiences, earning her accolades from maestros.

Her dedication extends to teaching, with over 100 students under her guidance in Bengaluru. Nishi curates the annual event, Arpan, in honor of her Guru, celebrating Kathak in its purest form through intimate Baithak-style performances. Her journey is a blend of tradition, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to her art.

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