Pernia Qureshi

🪔 About

Pernia Qureshi is an Indian-American fashion entrepreneur, stylist, actress, author, and classical dancer, primarily based in New Delhi and Mumbai. Born in Pakistan with roots in Rampur, Uttar Pradesh, she later became a US citizen in 2008. Qureshi received her early education at Woodstock School in Mussoorie, India, and is an alumna of George Washington University, where she pursued a minor degree in dance. Her classical dance training began at a young age with Kathak, accompanying her mother to classes. She later trained in Kuchipudi under the tutelage of the renowned Padma Bhushan awardees Raja Radha Reddy and Kaushalya Reddy. Qureshi also received training in Kathak from Pandit Tirath Ram Azad, and had the opportunity to train with Kathak maestros Pandit Birju Maharaj and Kumudini Lakhia during her acting career. She has performed Kuchipudi across India and internationally, with notable appearances at events such as the Commonwealth Games, Khajuraho Dance Festival, and Jashn E Rekhta Festival. In February 2016, she presented "Chandni Raatein," a fusion recital blending Kathak and Kuchipudi, in New Delhi and Mumbai. Qureshi often performs with her gurus in recitals. Beyond her dance career, Qureshi has made significant contributions to the fashion industry. She worked as a stylist for prominent publications like Harper's Bazaar, Elle, and Condé Nast, and designed costumes for the 2010 Bollywood film "Aisha." In 2012, she founded Pernia's Pop-Up Shop, India's first e-commerce platform for Indian designer wear, making high fashion accessible globally. She also launched Saritoria, a platform for pre-loved fashion, promoting sustainability. As an actress, she debuted in Muzaffar Ali's 2015 period drama "Jaanisaar." Qureshi is also a published author, with books including "Be Stylish with Pernia Qureshi" (2013) and "Ammi's Kitchen." In 2024, she started "Fashionably Qureshi," India's first video podcast in the luxury, lifestyle, and fashion category. In 2017, it was reported that Qureshi intended to establish a dance academy in India to promote classical dance among young aspiring dancers.