About Us

She later advanced her learning under the revered Late Pandit Arjun Mishra ji, following the Guru-Shishya Parampara, and became his Gandabandh Shishya. Under his guidance, she honed her art with deep dedication and introspection.

Her performances are marked by creativity, innovation, and emotional depth. One can see the effort to bring new creativity in her dance, the desire to experiment with something new in each performance, the sweetness of emotions, the appropriate role of a character, the ability to emote and beautify the dance, and the diversity of rhythmic verses—all of which come together in a unique confluence in her art style. She brings alive characters with powerful abhinaya, graceful movement, and intricate rhythm. Her style reflects a distinctive blend of “Upaj,” Nritta and Nritya Ang, connecting tradition with modern sensibility. She exemplifies Kathak’s core aesthetics while adding her own contemporary interpretation, making each performance an immersive experience.

As a soloist, Dr. Manisha captivates with her vibrant energy, impeccable footwork, and expressive eyes. Deeply rooted in classical tradition, she seamlessly integrates contemporary thought into her artistic vocabulary, making her a powerful and pathbreaking presence in the world of Indian classical dance. Her collaborations with renowned artists and performances at prestigious national and international festivals underscore her versatility and vision. Through her work, she aims not only to create compelling artistic narratives but also to nurture the next generation of dancers—offering rigorous physical training alongside open and inquisitive thinking.

Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Manisha is a devoted wife to renowned classical-semi-classical vocalist Shri Pravin Kashyap, and a proud mother of the gifted young Tabla player Aaradhya Pravin. For her, family is her anchor, and her parents and gurus are her guiding deities. She attributes her growth as an artist and individual to the life teachings of her father and guru, Pandit Ravi Nath Mishra ji, who instilled in her not only the essence of music and dance but also the art of balancing life and career gracefully.

To Manisha, Kathak is her lifeblood, the stage her temple, and the audience her divine witness. She has dedicated her heart, soul, and spirit to the propagation of this sacred art. As a committed teacher and cultural ambassador, she continues to research, perform, and pass on the Kathak tradition with authenticity and vision.