Saturday, March 16, 2019
Biography of Sonal Mansingh:
Sonal Mansingh is a highly acclaimed Indian classical dancer and choreographer known for her expertise in Bharatanatyam and Odissi. Born on April 30, 1944, in Mumbai, India, Sonal Mansingh has made significant contributions to the field of Indian classical dance.
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| Sonal Mansingh |
Here is a brief biography of Sonal Mansingh:
Early Life:
Sonal Mansingh was born into a family with a rich cultural heritage. Her mother was an excellent painter, and her father was a Sanskrit scholar and poet.
She spent her early years in Mumbai and was exposed to various art forms, including music and dance, from a young age.
Sonal Mansingh's Education in Dance:
Sonal Mansingh began her training in Bharatanatyam under the guidance of her first guru, Mrinalini Sarabhai.
Later, she moved to Delhi and continued her training in Odissi under Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra, one of the most renowned exponents of Odissi.
Career in Dance:
Sonal Mansingh made her debut as a professional dancer in 1962 and quickly gained recognition for her talent and dedication to the art form.
She became proficient in both Bharatanatyam and Odissi, combining elements from both styles to create a unique and expressive dance vocabulary.
Sonal Mansingh's Contribution to Dance:
Sonal Mansingh is known for her innovative choreography and her ability to infuse traditional dance forms with contemporary themes.
She has choreographed numerous dance productions, addressing social issues, mythology, and cultural heritage.
Awards and Recognitions:
Sonal Mansingh has received several prestigious awards for her contributions to Indian classical dance, including the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, which are among the highest civilian honors in India.
She has been honored with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and the Kalidas Samman, among other accolades.
Academic Pursuits:
In addition to her dance career, Sonal Mansingh has been involved in academic and cultural activities. She has served as a member of various cultural and academic organizations in India.
Political Career of Sonal Mansingh:
Sonal Mansingh has been associated with cultural and educational institutions and has also been involved in politics.
She was nominated to the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament, in 2006.
Legacy:
Sonal Mansingh is considered a living legend in the world of Indian classical dance.
Her performances are characterized by grace, expressiveness, and a deep connection to the cultural and spiritual roots of the art form.
She continues to be an influential figure, inspiring generations of dancers and contributing to the preservation and promotion of India's rich cultural heritage.
Sonal Mansingh's life and work exemplify her commitment to the arts, and she remains a revered figure in the world of Indian classical dance.