NRITYADHAM
School of Performing Arts

Prerana Deshpande's Nrityadham started in 1993 for the preservation and propagation of Kathak dance. Over the years, Nrityadham has acquired its reputation as a distinguished school of Kathak from beginners to professionals, with students from around the world learning under the watchful eye of Prerana. Nrityadham embodies Prerana's vision of nurturing the rich traditions of Kathak while fostering innovation and excellence in performance.

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At Nrityadham, students receive comprehensive training in Kathak, starting from foundational techniques to gradually progressing to advanced levels. The curriculum is designed to deepen students' understanding of the dance form's nuances, including abhinaya (expression) and laya (rhythm). Several of Nrityadham students have received National Scholarships by the Government of India to study Kathak under Prerana ji, and many of her students have ably pursued Masters degrees in various universities in Pune. Nrityadham’s home studio is a state-of-the-art haven, providing students with ample space for practice and access to a library of Kathak literature. For outstation students, accommodation arrangements are supported, facilitating immersive and intensive learning experiences reminiscent of the Guru-Shishya style. With this holistic learning set-up, Nrityadham has produced highly talented Kathak dancers with branches in Chennai, USA, and Australia who are lighting up stages around the world.

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Nrityadham's commitment to excellence extends beyond its classrooms. The institute's performers have graced stages at various prestigious festivals and events like NCPA, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, New York Kathak Festival, Kalashram Lucknow, IIC Delhi, among many others. The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has presented Prerana ji and the Nrityadham Troupe in several countries of the world as cultural ambassadors of India for the Kathak art form.  

Located in Pune, Nrityadham continues to be a beacon for Kathak enthusiasts, offering a nurturing environment for students to explore and excel in this classical dance form. Through its rigorous training programs, performances, and global outreach, Nrityadham upholds the rich legacy of Kathak while inspiring new generations of dancers.