Maneesha Sathe

Maneesha Sathe, born on May 26, 1953, in Pune, India, is a famous Kathak dancer and choreographer celebrated for her unique approach to a classical dance form. Her journey into the world of dance began at the tender age of six when her parents recognized her need for physical activity due to a medical condition. Enrolled in Kathak classes under the tutorship of Pandit Babasaheb Gokhale, young Maneesha embarked on a path that would shape her life profoundly.

In 1964, at the age of 11, Sathe's passion for Kathak led her to Mumbai, where she became a devoted disciple of the renowned actor, choreographer, and dancer Pandit Gopi Krishna. Under his strict guidance, she refined her talent and developed a passion for art. In 1975, Maneesha Sathe founded Maneesha Nrityalaya, a renowned years-old institution dedicated to the dance world. Her dance school is located on Pune's Prabhat Road. Dedicated to preserving the tradition of Kathak, she encourages experimentation and exploration with diverse art forms, themes, and music in her choreographies. Her passion leaves the audience awestruck by her expressions, footwork, and energy.

Her creative spirit is evident in performances that blend Kathak with Japanese music and tackle contemporary societal issues such as dowries and female infanticide. Her contributions to Kathak have earned her numerous awards, including the Maharashtra State Cultural Award in 2006, the Pandita Rohini Bhate Award in 2017, and the Sarang Sanman in 2019. Her commitment to the art was recently showcased in the dance event 'Anuvedh,' organized by Manisha Nrityalaya Sanstha on International Dance Day. The program featured captivating performances by Sathe and her talented students, exploring themes like Shivbhushan, Narayan Kavita, Mozart Symphony, and Saptachakra.

Sathe also serves as a visiting professor at esteemed institutions like Savitribai Phule Pune University's Centre for Performing Arts, Bharati Vidyapeeth University in Pune, and the Videocon Academy of Fine and Performing Arts in Ahmednagar. Maneesha Sathe believes in the importance of artists supporting each other and fostering love, trust, and collaboration. In her view, thoughtful and skillful dancing is enhanced by a supportive artistic community. Sathe's life and work stand as a testament to the transformative power of Kathak and its ability to challenge traditional boundaries.