Deodatt Persaud

🪔 About

Deodatt Persaud is a distinguished Kathak dancer, choreographer, and teacher, recognized for his efforts in propagating Indian classical dance in Europe. Born in Georgetown, Guyana, South America, Persaud developed an early connection to Indian arts and culture. His initial training included Tabla under Guru Pt. Puran Maharaj of the Banaras Gharana at the Indian Cultural Centre in Georgetown, where he also briefly learned Bharatnatyam from Dr. Nalini Mishra. His passion for Kathak deepened under the tutelage of Guru Hemant Panwar. Persaud's dedication earned him a scholarship from the Indian Government under the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), leading him to India's prestigious National Institute of Kathak Dance, Kathak Kendra, New Delhi. There, he completed his Post Graduate studies under the guidance of the Jaipur Gharana stalwart, Guru Pt. Rajendra Gangani, who significantly shaped his artistic development. During this period, he also continued his Tabla studies with Guru Pt. Govind Charaborty and explored Hindustani Classical vocal music. Based in Göttingen, Germany, Deodatt Persaud actively presents and teaches Kathak across Germany and other European cities, including Amsterdam, Hamburg, Munich, Nijmegen, and Nuremberg. He is the head of "Samvedan- The Deodatt Persaud Kathak Studios, Europe." His unique style is characterized by clear, articulate movements, a strong command over rhythm, powerful pirouettes, and crisp footwork. Persaud has performed in numerous prestigious festivals in India and internationally, earning critical acclaim. He is committed to exploring Kathak as a solo artist and through collaborations with other European dance forms for experimental work.