About the Performer

Shama Bhate, a Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee, has dedicated over 50 years to Kathak as a performer, teacher, and choreographer, known for her distinctive blend of technical mastery and expressive storytelling. She is the founder of Nad-Roop, a prominent Kathak institute in Pune with over 600 students and numerous international performances. Shama has graced major festivals such as Sawai Gandharva and Khajuraho, earning accolades like the Maharashtra Rajya Puraskar and Times Power Woman Award. Under her leadership, Nad-Roop has produced over 50 dance ballets and represented Indian classical arts worldwide through performances, workshops, and cultural exchanges