Sonal Mansingh - The Diva of Dance!

Eminent Indian classical dancer Sonal Mansingh in action at the 5th Delhi International Arts Festival, Meghdoot Theatre, Rabindra Bhawan, New Delhi, India.

According to Wikipedia: "Dr. Sonal Mansingh (Hindi: सोनल मानसिंह) (born Apr 30, 1944) is an eminent Indian classical dancer and choreographer of Odissi dancing style; who is also proficient in other Indian classical dancing styles including Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, and Chhau"

She is a well recognized actor, orator, teacher, choreographer. She has received many honours and appreciations for her contribution to the world of Classical Dance from many renowned national and international organizations.

She became the youngest recipient of the Padma Bhushan award in 1992. She was also awarded with the Padma Vibhushan in 2003, becoming the first woman dancer to be awarded with Padma Vibhushan. Besides being a dancer, Sonal Mansingh is also a strong social activist.

According to her own website: "The celebrated Diva of Indian Dance, Sonal Mansingh(born 30 April 1944) symbolizes the best traditions of classical dance-forms of India, Bharatanatyam and Odissi, two of the oldest dance forms of India, have found their most eloquent and convincing voice in Sonal. Revered as dancer, choreographer and guru, she is unparalled for her knowledge of Indian philosophy, mythology, iconography and their cumulative inter-linkages
with dance.

Sonal has danced in 87 countries of the world on five continents. She has held master classes, workshops, given lecture-demonstrations and travelled to remotest corners of the world to share her joy in the beauty and wisdom contained in dance.

Sonal founded The Centre for Indian Classical Dances in Delhi in 1977. The Centre has trained young women and men, many of whom are already well-known as performers and teachers. At the Centre classes are given in Bharatanatyam , Odissi, Classical and light music and Yoga.

Sonal's ever vibrant creativity has yielded new dimensions to the set repertories, latest being the Naatya-Katha. This is the ancient form of story-telling which Sonal has embellished with her own singing, narrative skills combined with abhinaya i,e the art of expressive communication through hand-gestures, postures and a face that reflects myriad emotions. No dancer in living memory has presented this art-form.

Sonal has been honoured with many award including the rarely given Padma Vibhushan from President of India and KAMESHWARI, from Shri Kamakhya Adi Shakti Pith temple in Assam."

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