Kumudini Lakhia, a pioneering figure in the world of Kathak dance, passed away in Ahmedabad on Saturday morning, April 12, 2025, at the age of 95. Known for her innovative approach to group performances in a dance form traditionally dominated by solo acts, Lakhia’s legacy will continue to influence generations of dancers.
Just a few weeks prior to her death, Lakhia was honored with the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award, on Republic Day in January 2025. This accolade was a testament to her lifelong dedication to the art of Kathak, a classical dance form that she not only practiced but also transformed through her teaching and choreography.
Born on May 17, 1930, in Ahmedabad, Lakhia began her journey in dance under the tutelage of the renowned Ram Gopal in London, where she toured internationally. In 1964, she founded the Kadamb Centre for Dance and Music in Ahmedabad, which became a nurturing ground for many aspiring dancers. Her innovative vision led her to start choreography in 1973, and she famously choreographed the Hindi film "Umrao Jaan" in 1981, a pivotal moment that showcased Kathak to a broader audience.
In a statement reflecting on her career, Lakhia once said, “Solo Kathak dance did not excite me anymore because it had developed too much gimmickry to it. However, I was deeply rooted in dance, and the technique of Kathak itself was very artistic and complete.” She emphasized the importance of dignity and finesse in performances, envisioning stages filled with dancers and vibrant colors, as she sought to elevate the presentation of Kathak.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over her passing, describing her as an “outstanding cultural icon” whose passion for Kathak and Indian classical dances was evident in her remarkable work. He noted, “A true pioneer, she also nurtured generations of dancers. Her contributions will continue to be cherished.” President Droupadi Murmu echoed these sentiments, highlighting Lakhia’s transformative impact on the presentation of Kathak through innovative interpretations.
Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat also mourned her loss, stating, “Her passing leaves the entire world of Kathak and Indian classical dance bereaved. Her contributions towards redefining Kathak vocabulary remain unparalleled.” The cultural community in India has recognized her as a guiding light, with many dancers and choreographers taking to social media to celebrate her legacy.
Lakhia’s influence extended beyond her immediate circle of students. Among her notable disciples are Aditi Mangaldas, who founded a dance academy in Delhi, and Daksha Sheth, who runs a dance school in Kerala. Atsuko Maeda, another of her students, opened ‘Kadamb Japan’ to teach Kathak in Japan. These individuals are just a few examples of how Lakhia’s teachings have spread across the globe, ensuring that her impact on the dance form will endure.
One of her students, Ishira Parikh, remarked, “Right from her ideas to her presentations, her work has deeply impacted generations of Kathak dancers.” Another student, Rupanshi Kashyap, shared her personal experience, stating that Lakhia’s teachings touched various facets of their lives, extending beyond dance itself.
In 2014, Lakhia participated in a significant performance titled "Kadak Badshahi," which celebrated the history of Ahmedabad. This event featured her dancing alongside the legendary Mrinalini Sarabhai, showcasing the continued relevance of Kathak in contemporary performance art.
As a mentor, Lakhia was known for her dedication to nurturing young talent, often focusing on the technical and artistic aspects of Kathak. She believed in the importance of presenting dance with a sense of artistry and depth, which she instilled in her students. Her vision for Kathak was not just about performance but about creating a rich experience that resonated with audiences.
Lakhia’s last rites were performed on Saturday afternoon, attended by family, friends, and students who came to pay their respects. She lived in Ahmedabad with her daughter, Maitreyi Hattangadi, who is also an accomplished dancer, while her son resides in Australia. A condolence meet is scheduled to be held in her memory in Ahmedabad on Tuesday, allowing the community to come together and celebrate her life and contributions to the arts.
Throughout her illustrious career, Kumudini Lakhia received numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri in 1987 and the Padma Bhushan in 2010, reflecting her significant contributions to Indian classical dance. Her work has been recognized not just in India but also internationally, with institutions such as Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania acknowledging her influence by comparing her to American modern dance icon Martha Graham.
As the world of dance mourns her passing, Kumudini Lakhia’s legacy as a trailblazer in Kathak will undoubtedly continue to inspire and influence future generations of dancers. Her innovative spirit and dedication to the art form have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of India.
