Malabika Mitra

🪔 About

Dr. Malabika Mitra is a distinguished Indian classical dancer, recognized as one of the foremost Kathak exponents in the country. Her journey in dance began at the tender age of three. She received extensive training in the Jaipur Gharana for over 14 years under the tutelage of Late Pandit Ramgopal Mishra. Later, she further honed her skills under the guidance of Vijay Shankar and Om Prakash Maharaj, gaining comprehensive knowledge of both the Jaipur and Lucknow Gharanas of Kathak. Mitra is celebrated for her flawless technique, scintillating footwork, crisp bols, and impressive padhant, combined with a graceful stage presence. She has developed a unique individual style that blends the technical brilliance of the Jaipur Gharana with the delicate grace of the Lucknow Gharana. A "TOP" grade performer of Doordarshan, she has performed extensively at major festivals across India, including the Kathak Mahotsav, Ghungroo Festival, and Kathak Prasang, and was the inaugural dancer of the Millennium Celebration of Khajuraho. Her international performances include tours in the USSR, Spain, France, and Nepal. Beyond her performing career, Dr. Malabika Mitra is a dedicated teacher, choreographer, and researcher. She has directed and choreographed Kathak ballets for Doordarshan, including "Vasant Bahaar" in 2004, which featured her and her disciples. Her research work on the "Old Kathavachan Shaily" earned her a Senior Fellowship from the Ministry of Human Resources Development, Government of India, in 1997. She has successfully revived a refined and modified version of the ancient "Katha Vachan" temple art, integrating its value-oriented education system into contemporary Kathak repertoire. Academically, she is also a medical graduate from 1979 and a gold medalist in her M.Mus examination, holding the "Nritya Praveen" title. Awards & Honours: Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2010), Senior Fellowship in Kathak (1997), Nritya Praveen, Shiromani, Singar Mani, Abhinav Kala Samman, Mahakaal Sangit Ratna, Best Dancer of India (1989), Best Dancer of 2004 (2004).