Alpana Shukla Vajpeyi

🪔 About

Alpana Shukla Vajpeyi is a renowned Indian classical Kathak dancer, recognized as a leading exponent and representative of the distinct Raigarh gharana of Kathak. Based in Bhopal, India, she is a seasoned performer and a dedicated torchbearer of this unique tradition. Her training lineage traces back to the esteemed Pandit Kartikram and his son Pandit Ramlal, both brilliant dancers trained at the court of Maharaj Chakradhar Singh of Raigarh. Vajpeyi is known for performing compositions unique to the Raigarh gharana, which is notable for its preserved theory and compositions in voluminous treatises penned by Raja Chakradhar Singh. Beyond her performances, Alpana Shukla Vajpeyi has contributed significantly to the academic understanding of Indian classical dance through her writings. She is the author of several books, including "Indian Classical dance: Tradition in Transition," "Classical Dance in India," and "Indian Classical dance: The Renaissance and Beyond." She has performed under the aegis of organizations such as the Indian Council for Cultural Relations.