SHILA MEHTA

Artistic Director & Founder |
Nupur Zankar Academy of Performing Arts & Research Centre

Shila Mehta is a Kathak dance artist, choreographer, Performer with over 35 years of experience in her field.She is the founder and Artistic Director of Nupur Zankar Academy of Performing Arts & Research Centre based in Mumbai with other centres at New Jersey -USA, Ghent –Belgium and Swindon – UK. Shila was groomed as Kathak artist under eminent Gurus and Masters including Pt. Prahalad Das, Pt. Vijai Shankar, Pt. Birju Maharaj. She was mentored in Laya asthetics by Pt. SureshTalwalkar. She participated actively in the choreographies of Pt.Chitresh Das and Smt.Kumudini Lakhia. Currently She is working with Dr Kanak Rele on understanding about Abhinaya aesthetics.

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"Art is a bridge to the values of life"

Pandit Birju Maharaj & Saswati Sen Congratulates Shila Mehta

At a very young age she made her mark in field of art and culture with scintillating performances and novel choreographies bringing a wave of energy, particularly in Gujarati society.

She is credited for her versatility in the art form. Trained in the Lucknow style, she is able to skillfully execute both the technical and expressive aspects of Kathak – a quality that leaves audiences spellbound. Her productions are known for being innovative in concept, allowing all audiences to access the true beauty of Kathak. Shila regularly tours. performs and teaches around the world at esteemed festivals and venues including in India, Europe. Australia, the Middle East and USA. Her work has fetched a number of awards recognizing her distinctive style. She is also credited for her contribution to Chaitanya Yoga and Charani Kathak. and for choreographies based on popular folk dances.

As a teacher. Shila is highly valued by students for her attention to detail. supportive and encouraging persona. and structured approach to dance education. Such qualities have been key in establishing her as the first choice for many students across the globe. Shila is also an ambassador of research in the arts and regularly delivers presentations on the subject at conferences and high profile events. She has always believed in using different mediums to share the benefits of creativity for physical and psychological well-being. Dance is a way. according to Shila, to connect to ones inner self. It supports emotional expression and enquiry, alongside more holistic development.