Kajal Sharma, a distinguished disciple of Padma Vibhushan Pandit Birju Maharaj, has made significant contributions to Kathak over the past thirty years in the UK. She received a national scholarship to train at Kathak Kendra Delhi under the guidance of Birju Maharaj. Her impressive career includes performances in around thirty countries and accolades such as the UP Sangeet Natak Academy Award, Kalashree, and Sringarmani awards. She is a ‘Top Grade’ artist with National Doordarshan and an empanelled artist with the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR).
In England, Kajal is a revered Kathak guru, dedicated to the promotion of authentic Kathak. She has taught and inspired students across generations, from as young as five to those over seventy, bringing the rich heritage of Kathak to diverse audiences.
“Naman”, is a tribute to her revered guru, Padma Vibhushan Pandit Birju Maharaj, who passed away in 2022. The performance features pure Kathak from the Lucknow gharana, with pieces based on Maharaj’s compositions and technical routines that highlight his distinctive style, characterized by elegance, agility, rhythmic precision, and strength.