Learning Objectives

• Show interest in learning about dance personalities.
• Actively research at least one other dance personality.
• Create a creative presentation in a project work or journal.

Chapter 13: Personalities

Learning Outcomes

• Shows interest to learn about dance personalities.
• Actively researches about at least one other dance personality.
• Creative presentation in a project work or journal.

Notable Personalities

Kedar Nath Sahu

• Background: Leading exponent of Seraikella Chhau from a traditional family of Chhau dancers.
• Training: Learned from father and grandfather; followed Guru-Sishya Parampara.
• Career: Performed in the troupe of Kumar Bijoy Pratap Singh Deo; later formed his own troupe.
• Awards: Recipient of the Sangeet Natak Academy Award in 1981 and the Padma Shri in 2005.
• Influence: Trained notable dancers such as Shashadhar Acharya and Sharon Lowen.

Shambhu Maharaj

• Background: Scion of the Lucknow Gharana of Kathak; family of traditional Kathak dancers.
• Training: Trained under uncle Binda Deen; established a repertoire of dance.
• Career: Debuted in 1926 at the All India Music Conference; moved to Delhi in 1955.
• Teaching: Taught at Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra; influenced many dancers including Birju Maharaj.
• Awards: Recipient of the Padma Shri in 1958 and Sangeet Natak Academy Award in 1967.