Shraddha Joglekar

🪔 About

Shraddha Joglekar is a distinguished Bharatanatyam exponent, teacher, guru, and choreographer, known for her contributions to Indian classical dance in both India and the United States. She developed a passion for classical dance at a young age, beginning her Bharatanatyam training at three years old. Joglekar holds a Bachelor of Arts in Bharatanatyam and is a post-graduate in dance, having received guidance from Dr. Swati Daithankar and senior disciples of the legendary Dr. Rukmini Devi Arundale in the Kalakshetra style. She also trained under Guru A. Soudamini Rao for 18 years. Joglekar founded the Kalaawishkar Academy of Dance, initially established in Pune, India, in 2000. The academy expanded its operations to the San Jose Bay Area, USA, in 2006, where it has continued to flourish for over two decades. As the artistic director, she has overseen 12 Arangetrams (debut performances) in the Bharatanatyam style. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes nurturing confidence, cultural pride, and artistic expression in her students. She also served as a faculty member teaching Bharatanatyam at the Maharashtra Cultural Centre in Pune from 2002 to 2005. Beyond traditional Bharatanatyam, Joglekar is recognized for her innovative choreographic works and unique dance forms. She created "Yogic Dance," which integrates Bharatanatyam with Yoga, Pranayam, footwork, and meditation, and "Nritya Ved," which interprets Vedic chants through Bharatanatyam with live musical accompaniment. Her choreographic productions include "Geet Ramayan," "Shivoham," and "Tichi Goshta" (Marathi). She has performed extensively in India and the US, including notable performances of the "Geet Ramayana" dance drama in Pune and Mumbai. Joglekar also made a Bollywood debut, appearing in the movie "Legend of Bhagat Singh," and participated in modeling events. Awards & Honours: Distinction, B.A. in Bharatnatyam (2000), Zeal, Classical Dance Competition (2001), Artist of the Year (contribution to Classical Dance) (2004), Felicitation for teaching Bharatanatyam to Indian-American kids (2014).