Renowned as a master of the North Indian classical dance Kathak, Guru Alpana Sengupta epitomizes the captivating style of the Raigarh Gharana. With her dynamic and mesmerizing performances, she has garnered a devoted international following.
Since 1974, Guru Alpana Sengupta has been at the forefront of promoting Indian dance in the UK and the West, often collaborating with her late husband, the sitarist Mick Taylor. She holds the distinction of being the first classical Indian dancer to tour globally, presenting Kathak Dance in its authentic form at venues and festivals worldwide. Her enduring dedication and achievements have significantly influenced today's arts landscape.
Alpana Sengupta's professional acclaim extends beyond her performances to her commitment to education. Through decades of teaching classes, workshops, and educational initiatives, she has nurtured countless aspiring dancers. Additionally, she has played a pivotal role in conducting examinations for prestigious Indian universities and institutions like Prayag Sangit Samiti, Pracheen Kala Kendra, and PRSSV, UK. Her students, who continue to perform and teach, are a testament to her enduring legacy, with many considering her a guiding light in their artistic journeys.
In addition to her dance career, Alpana Sengupta has showcased her acting talent in various films and documentaries, including notable works such as ‘Jewel in the Crown’, ‘Tales of the Unexpected’, ‘Master of Ballantrae’, ‘Romance Romance’, ‘Hotel London’, ‘South Bank Show’, ‘Hindi Urdu Bol Chal’, ‘Family Band’ and ‘Asian Arts’.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Guru Alpana Sengupta was honored with an MBE in 2018 for her 45 years of dedication to teaching, choreography, and performance in the UK.