Mission Statement:
At Art of Kathak, our mission is to preserve and promote the rich heritage of Kathak, Bhangra, and Bollywood dance forms, each with its own unique cultural significance. We aim to foster an environment of creativity, discipline, and artistic excellence, inspiring students of all ages and backgrounds to express themselves through the dynamic rhythms, expressive movements, and storytelling traditions of these diverse dance styles. Our commitment is to provide high-quality dance education that nurtures individual talent, cultivates cultural appreciation, and builds a vibrant community dedicated to the timeless arts of Kathak, Bhangra, and Bollywood.
Rajwinder Dev | Founder, Kathak, Bollywood, and Bhangra Instructor
Rajwinder is a passionate dancer who has been immersed in the world of dance for most of her life. Her dance journey took a meaningful turn in 2014 when she began studying Kathak, a classical Indian dance form that quickly became a central part of her artistic identity. A few years into her training, she had the privilege of continuing her studies under the guidance of her esteemed Guru, Brittny Vanece, whose mentorship has played an invaluable role in shaping her growth as an artist and teacher.
Throughout her journey, Rajwinder has had the honor of performing at renowned venues such as Carnegie Hall and on international stages, including the 1st World Festival of Indian Dance in Greece. These opportunities have deepened her appreciation for the beauty, storytelling, and cultural connection that dance brings to communities around the world.
In addition to Kathak, Rajwinder has a strong background in Bhangra and Giddha —energetic folk dance forms from the Punjab region—as well as Bollywood dance, allowing her to embrace and celebrate a wide range of movement traditions.
Outside of dance, Rajwinder holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and a Master of Public Administration with a concentration in Health Policy.
Jhanvi Patel| Kathak Instructor
Jhanvi is a dedicated Kathak dancer whose journey began in 2013 and has continued to shape her artistic identity ever since. A few years into her training, she began studying under her Guru, Brittny Vanece, whose mentorship deepened her technique and nurtured her growth as both a dancer and a teacher. Under Brittny’s guidance, Jhanvi eventually stepped into teaching as well, strengthening her connection to the art form and the community around it.
She has performed at the 1st World Festival of Indian Dance in Greece, an experience that broadened her appreciation for the cultural depth and global resonance of dance. Among all aspects of Kathak, Jhanvi is especially drawn to its intricate footwork and storytelling woven into each movement.
Outside of dance, Jhanvi is a pre‑medical student majoring in Psychology with a minor in Health Policy and Management. She is grateful to share her love of Kathak with her students and hopes to help others find confidence, joy, and connection through the art form.
Brittny Vanece| Kathak Instructor, Private Classes
Brittny Vanece is a Carnegie Hall Performer, an internationally recognized Kathak artist, and a member of UNESCO's International Dance Council. She is a disciple of Guru Prashant Shah ji. He is a senior disciple of Padma Bhushan recipient, Smt. Kumudini Lakhia. Guru Prashant ji is the recipient of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Yuva Puraskar (National Award) established by President of India in the name of Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar for Kathak dance.
Brittny has learned from Kumud Savla ji of Nritya Natya Kala Bharti, through her formative years. She has also learned from some of the all time greats, including Pandit Rajendra Ganagani ji, Pandit Birju Maharaj ji, and Pandita Maneesha Sathe ji through retreats and workshops.
Brittny obtained her Visharad Purna (Bachelor’s degree in Performance Arts) with distinction from Bharati Vidyapeeth University (Pune, India). She is also a graduate of Auburn University with Bachelor's in Psychology and Master's in Education, and is a member of the National Association of Schools of Dance.
Brittny is a prolific performer. She performed at the one of a kind New York Kathak Festival, which featured some of the best Kathak dancers from around the world, as well as legendary stalwarts including Pandit Birju Maharaj ji and Guru Prashant Shah ji.