Rachna Nivas

Rachna Nivas is a performing artist, choreographer, educator, and activist specializing in Indian classical Kathak dance. Critics describe her as "revelatory" and "charismatic," noting she "radiates power and grace."

She spent 15 years as principal dancer with legendary Pandit Chitresh Das' acclaimed company before co-founding Leela Dance Collective, where she now directs its New York City chapter. Pandit Das also appointed her to direct his educational institution, Chhandam School of Kathak, in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Her work explores "elevating feminine consciousness and Eastern philosophies," incorporating spirituality, mysticism, and non-duality. Notable original works include Reclaiming the Divine Feminine, Unedited, SPEAK (cross-cultural collaboration), Son of the Wind, and Meera.

She has been twice nominated for Isadora Duncan Dance Ensemble Awards, and is a recipient of the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts Dance Research Fellowship and CUNY Dance Initiative Residency. Her work has been funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, California Arts Council, and Zellerbach Family Foundation.