Ahmedabad: Renowned Kathak dancer and choreographer Kumudini Lakhia passed away early this morning at the age of 95. The founder of the Kadamb Centre for Dance and Music was honoured with the Padma Vibhushan earlier this year on Republic Day.

Lakhia lived in Ahmedabad with her daughter, Maitreyi Hattangadi, a noted dancer herself. Her son resides in Australia. Over her illustrious career, she was also conferred with the Padma Shri in 1987 and the Padma Bhushan in 2010, along with several other national recognitions.

After performing solo for nearly seven decades, she established Kadamb in 1967, beginning with a small group of students. In 1973, she shifted her focus to choreography.

In 2014, she joined fellow Gujarati legend Mrinalini Sarabhai on stage for the theatrical production Kadak Badshahi, which showcased the cultural history of Ahmedabad.

Some of her most prominent disciples include Aditi Mangaldas, Daksha Sheth, and Atsuko Maeda—who founded Kadamb Japan to promote Kathak abroad.

According to her office, Lakhia’s cremation is scheduled for Saturday, with a condolence meeting to be held in Ahmedabad on Tuesday.

The Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the passing of Kumudini Lakhia. He hailed her as an outstanding cultural icon, whose passion towards Kathak and Indian classical dances was reflected in her remarkable work.

He wrote in a post on X: “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.”

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…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 12, 2025

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