Tanusree Shankar Biography, Age, Early Life, Career Wiki, and Facts
Introduction
Tanusree Shankar is a renowned Indian dancer and choreographer, celebrated for her innovative approach to dance that beautifully combines classical Indian dance forms with modern techniques. As one of the leading exponents of contemporary Indian dance, she has won international acclaim for her performances, choreography, and dedication to the art of dance. Tanusree is the daughter-in-law of the legendary dancer Uday Shankar and wife of Ananda Shankar, the pioneering musician. She carries forward her family’s rich artistic legacy while establishing her own unique style, often referred to as “Shankar Technique of New Dance.” Her contributions to dance have made her an iconic figure in Indian performing arts.
Biography
Tanusree Shankar was born on March 7, 1956, in Kolkata, West Bengal, India. Her artistic journey began at a young age, greatly influenced by the creative environment she was raised in. Although her initial training was in classical dance, Tanusree was inspired to experiment with modern forms, resulting in a unique style that blends traditional Indian dance with contemporary movements. Her training under Uday Shankar and his distinctive dance style has made her one of the most sought-after dancers in the country, and she has carried his legacy forward with her own artistic touch.
In addition to her illustrious career as a dancer, Tanusree is also a well-respected choreographer and has collaborated with various international artists and institutions. She has choreographed numerous dance performances, theatrical productions, and events, earning accolades for her creativity and ability to connect with audiences through dance.
Age
As of 2023, Tanusree Shankar is 67 years old. Her years of experience and dedication to her art add a profound level of maturity and depth to her work, both on stage and as a mentor to budding dancers.
Early Life
Tanusree Shankar was born and raised in Kolkata, a city celebrated for its cultural richness and appreciation of the arts. Growing up, she was drawn to the world of dance and performing arts, inspired by her love for rhythm, movement, and storytelling. Her initial dance training was in classical forms, particularly Bharatanatyam, which laid the foundation for her understanding of Indian dance.
However, Tanusree’s artistic journey took a new direction when she met Uday Shankar, the legendary dancer known for his innovative approach to Indian dance. His influence inspired her to explore a style that would combine Indian classical dance with elements of Western contemporary movement. The encouragement from her mentors and her own curiosity led her to experiment with choreography, eventually shaping her own distinctive style. Tanusree’s early exposure to different forms of art and her openness to experimentation prepared her to carry forward the Shankar legacy with her own unique touch.
Career Wiki
Tanusree Shankar’s career began in the 1970s when she joined Uday Shankar’s dance school, which was known for its unique style of “creative dance.” Unlike traditional Indian dance forms, Uday Shankar’s style was modern, drawing inspiration from Indian classical, folk, and Western contemporary dance. Tanusree quickly adapted to this technique, becoming one of its leading exponents and showcasing her talent in both solo and ensemble performances.
One of her most significant contributions to Indian dance is her development of the “Shankar Technique of New Dance,” which she crafted based on her training with Uday Shankar and her husband, Ananda Shankar, who was a renowned musician. This technique combines the grace of classical Indian dance with the freedom and innovation of contemporary movement, creating a unique and captivating form. Her performances have a visual storytelling aspect, often conveying themes from mythology, folklore, and everyday life.
Tanusree’s performances gained international acclaim, and she was invited to perform at various prestigious events and festivals around the world. Her tours in the United States, Europe, and Southeast Asia helped to promote Indian contemporary dance on a global platform, bringing attention to the richness and diversity of Indian arts. Tanusree also collaborated with international dancers and choreographers, which further enriched her style and expanded her artistic vision.
In addition to her performance career, Tanusree has dedicated a significant part of her life to dance education. She established the Tanusree Shankar Dance Academy in Kolkata, where she mentors young dancers and teaches the Shankar Technique of New Dance. Her academy has become a leading institution for contemporary Indian dance, attracting students from across India and abroad. Through her academy, Tanusree has trained a new generation of dancers who continue to carry forward her innovative style.
Tanusree Shankar has also made contributions to Indian cinema. She has choreographed dance sequences for several Bengali and Hindi films, bringing her unique style to the silver screen. Some of her notable works in film include collaborations with renowned Bengali filmmakers like Satyajit Ray, who appreciated her talent and artistic vision. Her work in films has allowed her to reach a wider audience and has further established her as a versatile artist.
Throughout her career, Tanusree has remained dedicated to promoting Indian dance on a global stage. Her performances, choreography, and teachings have helped to popularize contemporary Indian dance, making her one of India’s most respected dancers and choreographers.
Facts
Shankar Technique of New Dance: Tanusree is known for the “Shankar Technique of New Dance,” a unique style that combines Indian classical dance with contemporary elements.
Internationally Acclaimed Performer: Tanusree’s performances have been celebrated worldwide, and she has toured extensively in the United States, Europe, and Asia.
Legacy of Uday Shankar: As the daughter-in-law of Uday Shankar, she carries forward his legacy in Indian contemporary dance, adding her own innovations to his technique.
Established Dance Academy: Tanusree founded the Tanusree Shankar Dance Academy in Kolkata, which trains young dancers in her unique style and promotes contemporary Indian dance.
Choreographer for Films: She has choreographed dance sequences in Bengali and Hindi films, working with iconic directors like Satyajit Ray and bringing her dance style to cinema.
Collaboration with Ananda Shankar: Tanusree often collaborated with her husband, musician Ananda Shankar, whose music complemented her dance performances and enriched her choreographic work.
Promoter of Indian Arts on a Global Stage: Through her performances and collaborations, Tanusree has played a crucial role in promoting Indian dance on the global stage.
Influence on Indian Contemporary Dance: Tanusree’s unique style has influenced many dancers and choreographers, making her an iconic figure in contemporary Indian dance.
Respected Mentor and Teacher: Known for her mentorship, she has trained many successful dancers who continue her legacy in contemporary Indian dance.
Recipient of Prestigious Awards: Tanusree has been honored with several awards for her contributions to dance, including national and international recognition for her performances and choreography.
Conclusion
Tanusree Shankar’s journey in Indian dance is a testament to her passion, creativity, and dedication to preserving and innovating the art of dance. From her early days under the guidance of Uday Shankar to her role as a pioneering choreographer, Tanusree has consistently pushed the boundaries of traditional Indian dance, creating a unique style that resonates with audiences across cultures. Her Shankar Technique of New Dance has not only preserved her family’s artistic legacy but has also brought Indian dance into the modern era, bridging the gap between classical and contemporary styles.
Her contributions as a dancer, choreographer, and mentor have made her an influential figure in Indian performing arts, inspiring countless young dancers and enriching the cultural fabric of India. Through her international performances, film collaborations, and dedication to her academy, Tanusree has promoted Indian dance globally, showcasing the beauty and diversity of Indian culture.
As she continues to train the next generation of dancers, Tanusree Shankar remains a beloved and respected figure, celebrated for her contributions to Indian dance and her unwavering commitment to the arts. Her legacy serves as an inspiration to dancers and artists, reminding us of the power of innovation, dedication, and the enduring impact of cultural heritage.
