Bimbavati Devi

🪔 About

Bimbavati Devi is a highly acclaimed Indian classical dancer, renowned for her profound contributions to Manipuri dance, one of India's major classical dance forms. Born on August 6, 1975, she inherited a rich artistic lineage as the daughter of legendary Manipuri dance gurus, Guru Bipin Singh, often hailed as the "Father of Manipuri Dance," and Smt. Kalavati Devi. Her initiation into the world of dance and music began at a very tender age, receiving rigorous training directly from her illustrious parents. She further honed her skills under the tutelage of Darshna Jhaveri. Beyond pure dance, Bimbavati Devi also underwent comprehensive training in pung (Manipuri mridang) playing and the fundamentals of Thang Ta, a Manipuri martial art, which has enriched her understanding and execution of the dance form. She pursued higher education in dance, obtaining a Post-Graduation Degree from Rabindra Bharati University, where she is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Manipuri dance. As a solo artiste and a principal performer of Manipuri Nartanalaya, a pioneering institution founded by her parents and the esteemed Jhaveri sisters, Bimbavati Devi has extensively showcased the Manipuri style both nationally and internationally. Her performances are celebrated for their unique blend of traditional Manipuri elements with innovative and creative choreography, constantly seeking to expand the movement vocabulary while preserving the spiritual essence of the dance. She has graced numerous prestigious dance festivals across India, including the Khajuraho Festival, Konarak Festival, and Uday Shankar Festival, and has performed and conducted lecture-demonstrations in countries such as the USA, UK, Canada, Singapore, Finland, and France (Musee Guimet in Paris). Bimbavati Devi is an empanelled artiste of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and has significantly contributed to the art form through her choreographic works. Her notable dance-dramas include "Maitrika," "Anubhavaamah Samavratee," "Amitajyoti," and "Bhoomi," which often explore contemporary themes through the lens of Manipuri dance. She is deeply committed to teaching and perpetuating the legacy of her parents, ensuring the continued promotion and evolution of Manipuri dance for modern audiences. Her dedication to the art form has earned her numerous accolades and recognition, solidifying her status as a leading figure in Indian classical dance. Awards & Honours: Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship (2008), Sanskriti Award (2004), Aditya Birla Kala Kiran Puraskar (2007), Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar (2008), Shringar Mani, Nandita Kripalini Award, Senior National Scholarship in Manipuri Dance, Junior National Fellowship in Manipuri Dance.