Devi Lal

🪔 About

Pandit Devi Lal was a renowned Indian classical Kathak dancer, belonging to the Jaipur Gharana. He began his artistic journey by learning music from his father, Pandit Omkar Lal, in Ajmer. His father, a disciple of Ustad Faiyaz Khan, also initiated him into the art of Kathak, having himself learned from Pandit Narayan Prasad. Devi Lal later moved to Delhi, where he became a student of the esteemed Guru Pt. Sunder Prasad. Following his guru's demise, he commenced teaching at Shri Ram Bharati Kala Kendra. Devi Lal played a pivotal role in grooming his younger brother, Pandit Durga Lal, into a brilliant Kathak dancer. Together, they formed a celebrated duo known as the "Lal Brothers," captivating audiences with their Kathak performances in various forms across major cultural centers worldwide. Beyond his prowess as a dancer, Devi Lal was also recognized as a skilled musician and teacher, with talent on the tabla. He was married to Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee Geetanjali Lal, who also received training from him. In tribute to Devi Lal and his brother Durga Lal, Geetanjali Lal later founded the Devi Durga Kathak Sansthan. His legacy is carried forward by his son, Abhimanyu Lal, who is also a Kathak guru. Pandit Devi Lal passed away at an early age.