Shivani Verma

🪔 About

Shivani Verma is a distinguished Indian classical Kathak dancer, performer, and teacher based in Delhi, India. Her journey into Kathak began at a young age, with formal training commencing at seven, though she was introduced to basic steps from the age of four. She received tutelage from legendary gurus including Pandit Birju Maharaj, Shovana Narayan, and Sharmishtha Mukherjee, and also honed her skills at Uma Sharma's academy. Initially pursuing a career in law, Verma eventually dedicated herself entirely to Kathak, a path she describes as having chosen her. Verma is an empanelled Artiste under the Kathak Soloist category with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) since 2008. Her performances are noted for their contemporariness and ability to captivate audiences, with notable productions such as 'Champaran Se Bapu' and her unique portrayal of Devaki on stage. She has performed at significant events, including AR Rahman's daughter's wedding. Beyond performing, Shivani Verma is a dedicated educator and institution builder. She founded the Samarpan Culture Pre-School and Centre for Kathak in Panchsheel Park and Vasant Vihar, Delhi, in 2016, where she imparts her knowledge to students. She is also the visionary behind festivals like World Kathak Day and Dastaan-e-Kathak, aimed at promoting and expanding the global reach of Kathak. Her contributions to the arts have been recognized through various accolades, and she has been nominated to the General Council of the Sahitya Kala Parishad, the arts and culture division of the Government of Delhi. Awards & Honours: NavKiran Award (2013), Award for singular contribution to the cause of harmony through dance (2017).