The Dancers Nalini and Kamalini
In a ceremony on March 28, 2022, President Kovind presents Padma Shri to Ms. Nalini and Kamalini Asthana for Art. She has evolved her own academic style of rendition. Her Kathak has educational content, fit for taking classical arts to the masses.
Who is Kamalini Asthana and Nalini Asthana?
Kamalini Asthana and Nalini Asthana are a sister duo from Agra in Uttar Pradesh known for their great performances of the Banaras Gharana style of Kathak. They are renowned for their assistance in spreading the Banaras Gharana form of Kathak both inside and outside of India.
Nalini and Kamalini were both born in the Uttar Pradesh city of Agra. Their mother, Shyama Kumari Asthana, was a Hindustani vocalist, while their father, B P Asthana, worked for the Royal Air Force. They were raised in Delhi even though they were born in Agra. They attended the Mysore government-run Delhi Kannada School as well as Venkateswara College for their education. Kamalini and Nalini were introduced to dance in general and Kathak in particular by a chance encounter with Guru Jitendra Maharaj of the Benares Gharana.
