A kathak dancer with an edge

Ajay Joshi

Tribune News Service

Jalandhar, April 21

In the era of jazz, zumba, rumba, bachata, ballet and lyrical dance form, Kumar Sharma is letting no stone unturned to preserve the essence of Kathak dance. Hailing from Ludhiana, Kumar has accomplished his rightful place nationally as well internationally.

Last year, his flawless dancing on the globally famous English song ‘Shape Of You’ had created wonders and gave Kathak a new identity and recognition. Earlier, when he shifted to Mumbai he said, it was tough for him to garner a name for himself as every where people were preferring modern and international dance forms but somewhere he knew he would make it so tapped his foot in a way that India’s age-old dance revived in every reality. So far, apart from choreographing many shows, he said his best moment was to choreograph for Madhuri Dikshit, who herself is no less than a dancing queen. Though having performed in more than ten countries, not many knew that he is a trained vocalist in classical singing as well. He started his dancing when he was in 7th standard only and infact he was preparing himself to become a singer.

During this time he used to accompany his music teacher, for his shows. Belonging to a Jaipur Gharana, his teacher was also a classical dancer and once looking at Kumar taking interest for dance as well he decided to train him in dance also. And that’s how Kumar’s never-ending journey started.

For budding classical dancers he said, if you have some talent then do not worry about earning money out of it. One should only focus on sharpening his skills and money would follow itself.