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 pivotal turn in 2014 when she began studying Kathak, and it has since become a central part of her artistic expression. A few years into her Kathak training, she had the privilege of learning from her esteemed Guru, Brittny Vanece, whose guidance has been instrumental in honing her skills.
Rajwinder has performed at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall and on international stages, including the 1st World Festival of Indian Dance in Greece. These experiences enriched her understanding and appreciation of the cultural tapestry that dance weaves.
In addition to Kathak, she has a strong background in Bhangra and Giddha, two vibrant and energetic folk dance forms from the Punjab region, as well as Bollywood.
Outside of dance, she completed her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, and Master of Public Administration, concentrating in Health Policy.
Brittny Vanece| Kathak Instructor
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 was recently selected to perform 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.