Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh — In a world increasingly driven by instant trends and fleeting fame, Dr. Shagufta Khan stands tall as a custodian of timeless tradition. An internationally acclaimed Kathak artist, choreographer, educator, and cultural ambassador, she has spent over 14 years shaping the rhythm of India’s classical soul through her art, commitment, and innovation.
With roots grounded in tradition and wings that soar across continents, Dr. Khan is not just a dancer—she is a movement, nurturing new talent, reviving cultural heritage, and reimagining Kathak for a global audience.
🎓 A Scholar of Rhythm and Expression
Dr. Shagufta Khan’s artistic journey is as academically rich as it is emotionally resonant. She holds a host of prestigious degrees in Kathak and performing arts:
- M.A. in Kathak – Jiwaji University (First Division)
- Prabhakar in Kathak – Prayag Sangeet Samiti, Allahabad
- Post-Graduation in Performing Arts – Bundelkhand University
- Diploma in Kathak – Raja Mansingh Tomar Music & Arts University
- Special Training under Padma Shri Dr. Puru Dhaheech – Natvari Kathak Nritya Academy
This powerful blend of scholarship and stagecraft has crafted her into a dynamic performer, empathetic teacher, and visionary choreographer.
🏛️ Founder of Institutions, Builder of Dreams
Dr. Shagufta Khan is the founder and director of multiple institutions, each a vibrant space for dance, music, and early education:
- Dr. Shagufta Kathak Nritya Kala Samiti – A premier Kathak academy
- Jhankar – All India National Dance Competition & Festival – A launchpad for emerging talent
- Nritya Bharti Kala Kendra – A creative hub for stage training and cultural performances
- Little Stars Day Care & Play Group School – Her commitment to nurturing young minds
- President, UP Chapter – Veerangna Maharani Laxmi Bai Foundation – Empowering women and preserving legacy
- SM Production House – Bringing stories to life through music and media
Her holistic vision of combining arts with empowerment is visible in every initiative she leads.
🎤 A Celebrated Performer, Revered Guru, Respected Judge
Over the years, Dr. Khan has graced hundreds of stages as a performer, dance teacher, and competition judge, leaving a trail of mesmerized audiences and inspired artists. Her affiliations include:
- Gramodya International School, Mauranipur
- Modern Group of Schools
- Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, Kalyan Jewellers (Modeling Projects)
- Independent Music Albums – Blending classical with contemporary
As a jury member, she has lent her expertise to major competitions across the country:
- Big Memsaab (Seasons 1 & 2) – Big FM
- Jhansi Mahotsav
- Dhoom Machale International Dance Festival – JNU, Delhi
- Nrityanjali International Competition – Sikkim
- Delhi Dance Festival, BTUP Kanpur, Saptrang – Jhansi, and more
🏆 Crowned with Glory: National & International Awards
Dr. Khan’s tireless dedication has won her dozens of honors that recognize her artistic excellence and social contributions:
- Radio Mirchi & Big FM Winner
- Best Choreographer & Dancer Awards – Jaipur, Mumbai
- Rashtriya Samman Award (Young Choreographer) – MTTV India
- International Kala Ratan Award – Sikkim
- International Nrityangana Award – Delhi
- Thailand International Kathak Artist Award – Presented by Sudha Chandran
- Malaysia Nrityangana International Award
- Shimla Mahotsav Kala Nritya Award 2023
- Atal Rashtriya Gaurav Award 2023 – Bhopal
These accolades reflect her impact not only in India but across Asia as a global ambassador of Kathak.
🌍 Workshops, Collaborations, and Mentorship
A believer in collective growth, Dr. Khan has trained under and collaborated with legends such as:
- Padma Shri Dr. Puru Dhaheech – Kathak maestro
- Kumar Sharma – Kathak & Bollywood Choreographer
- Tarun Nihalani & Shivani Patel – Contemporary dance pioneers
Through workshops and camps, she continues to mentor budding artists, fusing tradition with innovation.
🎭 The Artist Beyond the Stage
When not dancing, Dr. Khan channels her creativity into theatre, horse riding, and sword fighting, reflecting her warrior-like spirit in both art and life. Her passions embody the strength of her persona: graceful yet fierce, poised yet powerful.
🌟 Vision for the Future: Globalizing the Grace of Kathak
Dr. Shagufta Khan’s mission transcends applause—it’s about impact. Her upcoming projects aim to:
- Digitize Kathak education for global students
- Launch international festivals celebrating Indian classical forms
- Mentor women artists and create employment in the cultural sector
- Provide scholarships to underprivileged performers
- Foster Indo-global dance collaborations
Her dream is to make Kathak not just relevant but revolutionary in modern global discourse.
✨ Final Words: The Rhythm of India in Every Step
In every ghungroo, every chakkar, every expression, Dr. Shagufta Khan carries the legacy of India. From the temples of Gwalior to the cultural halls of Malaysia, her art tells a story—a story of perseverance, purity, and purpose.
As she continues to choreograph change and perform with passion, Dr. Shagufta Khan remains a beacon for Indian classical arts, a mentor to many, and a living symbol of grace, strength, and cultural pride.
Contact for Performances, Workshops, and Collaborations:
Dr. Shagufta Khan
📍 Location: Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh
📧 Email: shaguftakhankhan20@gmail.com
📞 Phone: +91 85270 02328
