Welcome to Shambhavi’s International School of Kathak (SISK). Founded and led by the esteemed Kathak Guru Shambhavi Dandekar, the institution is a beacon of tradition. Shambhavi ji, as a Guru, believes in training her students in her unique performance and communication style. The curriculum at SISK goes beyond just technique, and delves into the concepts, history and theory of the dance form. We aim to channelize Kathak training to nurture good human beings and responsible global citizens. The mission of SISK is to promote Kathak dance across the globe to enrich the quality of life through the pursuit of dance.

SISK is located in the San Francisco Bay Area (in Sunnyvale, CA). We offer in-person and online classes, in addition to our renowned Global Distance Learning Program. 

Shambhavi Dandekar is a master performer, teacher and choreographer in Kathak dance. She is known as the torchbearer of Banaras Gharana of Kathak. Her Guru-s are her mother Kathak legend Pandita Maneesha Sathe and Tabla virtuoso Taalyogi Pandit Suresh Talwalkar. 

Originally from Pune, India, Shambhavi ji performs internationally and trains students all over the world. In her active performance career of 34 years, she has performed in more than 120 cities in 13 countries worldwide. She has been a Guru and mentor to 19 young dancers who pursue Kathak as their full time profession. 

Most recently, she was awarded as one of the ‘101 Changemakers of Silicon Valley’ by UK based organization ‘The Human Atlas’.