Kakoli is a multi faceted artist. Born in
W. Bengal into a music lovers' family. Kakoli
was
naturally attracted to Kathak dance at a very
young age. She began learning from her mentors
Vani Chakroboriy and Smt. Shrilekha Mukherji.
As she continued her training, she also was
a student of the world renowned, legendary
Pandit Birju Maharaj ji, and during the same
time,
Geetanjali Laal.
Kakoli continued her study of music formally,
obtaining her Bachelors in Music degree in
vocal
and Rabindra Nritya. She received her Masters
degree in Music - Dance from the Nati.onal
Institute
of Kathak Kendra, Delhi, and another Masters
degree in Music - Dance from the Prayag Sangeet
Samiti, Allahabad. During the period from 1998
to 2000, she was awarded a National scholarship
from the Ministry of Human Resource Development,
Department of Culture.
Kakoli has had the privilege and the honor to
perform at various prestigious venues and in
presence of dignitaries, including Prince Charles
and Lady Camilla Parker. Additional performances
include at the Kamani Auditorium, in presence
of Pandit Birju Maharajji in Delhi, Purcell
Room in London, England, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan
in London Centre, Nehru Center in presence of
Pandit Zakir Hussein and Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma.
Kakoli is currently settled in London, England
married to renowned Kathak dancer and teacher,
Pandit Abhay Shankar Mishra. She continues to
keep herself well occupied as a freelance performer/choreographer:
She also assists her husband in the Kathak arena
at the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan in London, England
when asked upon. Other dance hobbies include
many traditional folk dances, including Cchau
dance and Rabindra Nritya.
|