Rooted in the vibrant spirit of New York, Neela Zareen is a dedicated Indian classical dancer specializing in Kathak and Kuchipudi. Her artistic lineage traces back to revered mentors, Kathak Guru Smt. Prerana Deshpande and Kuchipudi Guru Smt. Sadhana Paranji, under whose guidance she cultivated a deep reverence for forms and storytelling.
For over two decades, Neela has shared her artistry through performances at numerous dance festivals and cultural events across New York and beyond, committed to cultural continuity through classical dance. She has received multiple grants and staged dance performances.
She founded Neela dance Academy over ten years ago, with studios in Jackson heights and Manhattan. Neela teaches Kathak and Kuchipudi to a diverse student community, many of whom perform regularly with cultural organizations. Her teaching emphasizes purity of form and nurturing future performers.
Learn more at https://www.neeladanceacademy.com
Events with Neela Zareen
Serenity in Rhythm: An Immersive Kathak RetreatJuly 20 - 23, 2026
RETREAT BY INVITED PRESENTER Neela Dance Academy’s Immersive Kathak Retreat provides focused training for intermediate dancers seeking to strengthen technique, rhythm, and expressive clarity. Techniques and materials learned in this retreat will culminate in a full stage performance before a large audience.. PLEASE NOTE: Registration closes June 25. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Designed to deepen both discipline and artistic understanding, the retreat will help you advance confidently in your study of Kathak.Daily classes will cover: Advanced Kathak techniques Rhythmic exercises Padhant speaking Advanced Kathak compositions (todas, tukdas) and taal presentation Rhythmic choreography, such as Tarana Traditional Kathak gats Lyrical choreography and expressive…
