Ahmedabad: Celebrated Kathak exponent and founder of the Kadamb Centre for Dance, Kumudini Lakhia, passed away on Saturday at the age of 95 in Ahmedabad. A pioneering figure in Indian classical dance, she was living with her daughter, the acclaimed dancer Maitreyi Hattangadi, at the time of her passing.

Lakhia, who was conferred the Padma Vibhushan earlier this year on Republic Day in recognition of her lifelong contribution to Kathak, had previously been awarded the Padma Shri (1987) and the Padma Bhushan (2010). Her extensive career earned her numerous accolades and deep admiration within India and beyond.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on social media, stating:
"Deeply saddened by the passing of Kumudini Lakhia ji, who made a mark as an outstanding cultural icon. Her passion towards Kathak and Indian classical dances was reflected in her remarkable work over the years. A true pioneer, she also nurtured generations of dancers. Her contributions will continue to be cherished. Condolences to her family, students and admirers. Om Shanti."

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel also paid tribute, calling Lakhia "the pride of Gujarat and India in the field of classical art." He added,
"She trained many disciples in classical dance and showcased the glory of Kathak across India and the world. May God grant peace to her soul and give strength to her relatives, disciples, and admirers. Om Shanti."

Born in 1929, Kumudini Lakhia began her journey in dance as a performer with Ram Gopal’s troupe, travelling internationally to introduce Indian classical dance to global audiences. She went on to train under luminaries of the Jaipur Gharana and Pandit Shambhu Maharaj, refining her art over the years.

After a distinguished career as a soloist, she founded the Kadamb Centre for Dance in Ahmedabad in 1967. By 1973, she had shifted her focus entirely to choreography, where she became a pathbreaker—known for her innovative group compositions that redefined the traditionally solo form of Kathak.

Her notable choreographic works include Dhabkar (Pulse), Yugal (The Duet), and Atah Kim (Where Now?), the latter of which she presented at the Kathak Mahotsav in Delhi in 1980.

Lakhia also contributed to cinema, choreographing for Muzaffar Ali’s iconic film Umrao Jaan (1981) alongside Gopi Krishna.

As a mentor, Lakhia nurtured generations of leading Kathak dancers, including Aditi Mangaldas, Vaishali Trivedi, Sandhya Desai, Daksha Sheth, Maulik Shah, Ishira Parikh, Prashant Shah, Urja Thakore, and Parul Shah, among many others.

Her passing marks the end of an era in Indian classical dance, but her influence will continue to resonate through her students and her transformative work in Kathak.