AboutSanchay Kathak
For over 35 years, we have been the guardians of Kathak tradition, nurturing artists who carry forward India's rich cultural heritage with passion and precision.
The Visionaries Behind Our Legacy
Guru Vaishali Palsule-Dhongade
Founder & Director
A renowned Kathak exponent whose artistry embodies tradition, precision, and grace. As a performer, teacher, and choreographer, she has mesmerized audiences across India and abroad with productions like Krishnayan and Moods of Kathak.
🎓Qualifications
- M.A. in Kathak from Lalit Kala Kendra
- Trained in Banaras, Lucknow, and Jaipur Gharanas
- Multi-instrumentalist: tabla, harmonium, violin
🏆Awards & Recognition
- Adarsh Nrutya Shikshak Puraskar (2008)
- Kala Rang Puraskar (2018)
- Sangeet Kalopasak Puraskar (2016)
Rajashree Dhongade
Senior Instructor
One of the brightest young talents in Kathak today. Known for poetic abhinaya and fusion choreographies, she has performed at prestigious festivals globally. Also contributes as an examiner, dance therapist, and kirtankar.
🎓Qualifications
- M.A. in Kathak from Pune University
- UGC-NET qualified with 95% score
- Visharad & Nrityalankar with 1st Rank
🏆Awards & Recognition
- Kalarang Puraskar
- Nrityavishkar Award
- Best Choreographer (ABSS)
Three Decades of Excellence
Founded in 1990 by Guru Vaishali Palsule-Dhongade, Sanchay Kathak Nrutya Academy began as the first dedicated Kathak academy in Pimpri-Chinchwad. What started as a small initiative has blossomed into a renowned institution with three branches training hundreds of students.
Over three decades, we've witnessed the transformation of countless students who started as curious beginners and evolved into accomplished performers, some achieving international recognition.
With 30+ Nritya Visharads and 2 Alankars produced, our success is measured not just in awards but in the lives touched through dance.
Three Branches, One Vision
Strategically located across the Pimpri-Chinchwad region to serve our community better
Chinchwad
Nigdi
Ravet
Our Vision
To be the leading institution for Kathak education, preserving the authenticity of this classical art form while making it accessible to contemporary learners. We envision a world where Kathak continues to inspire and connect people across cultures and generations.
Our Mission
- Provide authentic and comprehensive Kathak training across all Gharanas
- Foster artistic excellence while maintaining cultural integrity
- Create performance opportunities for students at local and international levels
- Develop confident performers who can carry forward the tradition
- Build a community of Kathak enthusiasts and practitioners
What We Stand For
Tradition
Preserving the authentic essence of Kathak while adapting to modern learning methods
Excellence
Committed to the highest standards of training and artistic development
Community
Building a supportive family of dancers, teachers, and cultural enthusiasts
Growth
Nurturing each student's individual potential and artistic journey