Meenal Chakradeo
San Diego, California
Known for her grace and expressions, Meenal is an avid performer and a versatile choreographer. She is a disciple of Benaras Gharana stalwart Shambhavi Dandekar and a Taal Vidya student of Pt. Divyang Vakil. Meenal's initial Kathak training took place in India under the guidance of Shri Suresh Dharmadhikari, an artist of Jaipur Gharana lineage. Under his tutelage, Meenal completed her Nritya Visharad from Indira Kala Sangeet Vishwavidyalaya (Khairagarh University), graduating at the top of her class and earning the prestigious Gold Medal.
Meenal is also a published author having recently coauthored a Kathak book "Kathak Theory Part 1" to help students understand Kathak terminology. This book is widely being used by students undertaking certification exams in India, the USA, and other countries.
Meenal has performed at various dance festivals and programs in India, Dubai, and the USA. She is the Founder and Artistic Director of 'Meenal’s Academy of Performing Arts' in San Diego, California, which is in its 15th year of operation. She enjoys sharing her passion and love for Kathak with students of all age groups.