Shila Mehta

Dedicated Service of many years in the field of Kathak, winning laurels and awards during this period, doing innovative work and creative productions are the hallmark of Shila Mehta. A vibrant stage presence, excellent command over rhythm and felicity of expressions best describe her. Her choreographies reflect a charming blend of philosophical and spiritual essence, so evident in her personality.

Shila took her first steps in dance under the tutelage of "Nrityacharya" SRI PRAHLAD DAS and his son SRI CHITRESH DAS. Later she received training in intricate nuances from renowned Guru Pt. VIJAI SHANKAR in Calcutta. She has attended intensive workshops conducted by the Doyen of Kathak PT. BIRJU MAHARAJ and SMT. KUMUDINI. She also took lessons in Abhinaya from SMT. KALANIDHI NARAYAN. Even though she is a Kathak exponent she has taken extensive training in Bharatnatyam & Manipuri dance styles and in Vocal Music. She has been taking guidance from PT. SURESH TALWALKAR for further enhancing & enriching her knowledge and understanding of the aesthetics of Tala and Laya.

She is adept at directing Dance Ballets and in presenting Folk Dances in both traditional and innovative styles. She also believes in trying to add new dimensions without giving up purity of the original / traditional form.

The press and critics have been appreciative of her attractive stage presence, excellent command over rhythm and felicity of expressions. Her creativity finds expression in the choice of themes for her productions, reflecting the philosophical and spiritual essence hidden in dance and music.

Shila has performed at several prestigious Festivals in India and Abroad. Her workshops on Kathak Dance and special workshops of - "DANCE STEPS - BETTER LIVING STEPS" are much sought after. She, along with her musicians, traveled to Germany for performances in 17 cities at the invitation of ICCR for the tour "Culture on Wheels".

Shila, a Teacher par excellence, is The Artistic Director of Nupur Zankar Academy Of Performing Arts. She does not only impart training in Kathak to her students, but it is her constant endeavor to develop an all-rounded personality through dance. She believes in inspiring them with aesthetic and spiritual merits of dance, instills in them the virtuosity of Indian values and the discipline, norms and purity of the classical "Kathak" dance tradition.