Brian Sekeko

🪔 About

Brian Sekoko, hailing from the black township of Soweto, South Africa, holds the distinction of being recognized as the first African Kathak dancer. His profound connection with Indian classical dance ignited around 1999, approximately six years prior to his pivotal journey to India. This initial spark occurred when he was deeply impressed by a demonstration of Indian dance steps by Vinod Hassel at Maselitso Secondary School in Soweto. Following this formative experience, Sekoko dedicated himself to the art form, becoming a student at the RK Dance Theatre, an institution in Soweto managed by Vinod Hassel. At the age of twenty-two in July 2005, Sekoko undertook a significant cultural and educational endeavor, traveling to India with the ambitious goal of becoming the first Kathak graduate from the African continent. His rigorous training focused on the Jaipur Gharana style, considered a foundational style of classical dancing, at the esteemed Ganesh Kala Mandir in New Delhi. This institution, recognized as one of India's oldest dance academies with a history spanning nearly four decades, operates under the guidance and patronage of Guru Ganesh Hassel, the father of his initial teacher, Vinod Hassel. A testament to his progress and dedication, Sekoko performed at the prestigious Kamani Auditorium in New Delhi on December 30, 2005, marking a significant public appearance in his burgeoning career. His commitment to Kathak extended beyond his personal training; upon his anticipated return from India and following a formal graduation, Sekoko was slated to assume leadership of one of the RK Dance Theatre's centers in Soweto. This role would involve contributing to the education of approximately 250 African students enrolled across the Theatre's five centers in various black townships, thereby fostering the growth of Kathak within his home country. Vinod Hassel underscored Sekoko's pioneering spirit, identifying him as the first black individual to demonstrate such a keen international interest in Kathak dancing.