Sunderlal Sathyanarayan Gangani

🪔 About

Pandit Sunderlal Sathyanarayan Gangani (born May 19, 1929, in Rajasthan; passed away December 17, 2013, in Baroda, Gujarat) was a revered figure in Indian classical dance, particularly known for his mastery and profound contributions to the Kathak tradition. A distinguished exponent of the Jaipur Gharana, he received his intensive training under the tutelage of Acharya Shivnarayanji. Gangani was a multi-faceted artist, excelling not only as a guru and performer but also as an accomplished poet, composer, musician (proficient in tabla and flute), and percussionist. Throughout his illustrious career, Pandit Sunderlal Sathyanarayan Gangani significantly impacted the propagation and evolution of Kathak, serving in both individual and institutional capacities. He held the esteemed position of Principal at Guru Gourishankarji's dance academy in Mumbai. For four decades, he was instrumental in establishing and leading the Department of Kathak as its founder-professor at the Faculty of Performing Arts, M.S. University, Vadodara, where he remained until his retirement. His pioneering efforts in Baroda helped plant the seeds of Kathak in the region. Recognized for his profound contributions, Pandit Sunderlal Sathyanarayan Gangani was a recipient of numerous prestigious accolades. He was honored with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship in 1998, the highest national recognition in performing arts. Additionally, he received the Gujarat Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, Rajasthan Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, Gujarat Gaurav Samman, and Sur Singar Samman. He was a prolific composer, having penned hundreds of Kathak poems and technical compositions, many dedicated to his chosen deities, Ram and Hanuman. His legacy is carried forward by his sons, Harish Gangani and Jagdish Gangani, who continue to teach Kathak at M.S. University, Baroda, and by a wide circle of disciples who perform and teach globally. Awards & Honours: Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship (1998), Gujarat Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, Rajasthan Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, Gujarat Gaurav Samman, Sur Singar Samman.