Sonia Parchure is a name that resonates deeply in the Indian classical dance community, particularly within the realm of Kathak. A performer, choreographer, and teacher, Sonia has carved a niche for herself through her dedication to preserving and promoting Kathak. Over the course of her illustrious career, she has trained hundreds of students and performed across various prestigious platforms, making her a key figure in Indian classical dance today.
Sonia Parchure Biography
Sonia Parchure was born and raised in Mumbai, where her journey into the world of dance began at a very young age. At the age of six, she started training in Kathak under the guidance of Mrs. Punam Murdeshwar. Her passion for the dance form was evident early on, and she continued to pursue her passion with rigor and dedication. She later trained under Dr. Manjiri Deo, a disciple of the legendary Padmashree Gopi Krishna, who helped Sonia master the intricate aspects of Kathak
Sonia’s formal education in Kathak culminated in her achieving two significant milestones: Nritya Visharad and Nritya Alankar, both from Akhil Bharatiya Gandharva Mahavidyalaya, with first-class honors. These accolades reflect her commitment and expertise in the art of Kathak. Her education did not stop there; she continued to refine her skills under Padmashree Pt. Suresh Talwalkar, focusing on “Layakari,” the rhythmic intricacies in Kathak.Here is a concise bio info table for Sonia Parchure:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sonia Parchure |
| Profession | Kathak Dancer, Choreographer, Educator |
| Dance Academy | Sharayu Nritya Kala Mandir |
| Recognized By | Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) |
| Training | Under Dr. Manjiri Deo, disciple of Gopi Krishna |
| Dance Certifications | Nritya Visharad (First Class), Nritya Alankar (First Class) |
| Known For | Kathak Performances, Choreography in Marathi Cinema |
| Notable Movies Choreographed | Pak Pak Pakak, Balgandharva, Kakasparsha, Kho Kho |
| Notable Performances | Khajuraho Dance Festival, Parliament House Delhi (Krishna Ballet), International Tours (Central America) |
| Awards | Surya Bharat National Award (2021), Zee Gaurav Awards (2008, 2014) |
| Husband | Atul Parchure (late), Actor |
| Daughter | Sakheel Parchure, Fashion Stylist |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Branches of Academy | Thane, Matunga, Vile Parle, Chembur, Badlapur, Australia (Online) |
Today, Sonia is an ICCR (Indian Council for Cultural Relations) recognized performer, frequently invited to perform at cultural events that celebrate India’s rich heritage. She is also a respected panelist, further cementing her role as a leader in Indian classical dance.
Sonia Parchure Age and Date of Birth
While specific details about Sonia Parchure’s date of birth have not been publicly disclosed, it is estimated that she is currently in her 50s. Despite her age, Sonia continues to perform and teach with great energy, keeping the traditional art of Kathak alive through her work.
Sonia Parchure Net Worth
Sonia Parchure’s exact net worth remains unknown as there are no official figures available. However, as a long-standing dancer, choreographer, and educator, her contributions to the Indian classical dance community and her income from performances, choreography in films, and managing her dance academy likely place her in a comfortable financial position. Her reputation within the dance community and frequent performances at prestigious events likely contribute significantly to her earnings.
Sonia Parchure Movies and Choreography
Apart from her career as a performer, Sonia Parchure is also an accomplished choreographer, contributing her expertise to the world of cinema, particularly in Marathi films. Her choreography has been featured in a wide range of popular films, where she has brought her unique style and classical knowledge to the big screen.
Some of the notable films that Sonia has choreographed for include:
- Pak Pak Pakak
- Vishwas
- Balgandharva
- Kho Kho
- Tula Shikvin Changlach Dhada
- Kakasparsha
- Bandh Nylon Che
These films have benefitted from her detailed understanding of rhythm, movement, and expression, which has elevated the dance sequences in these movies. Through her work in cinema, Sonia has managed to bring the grace and depth of classical dance into mainstream entertainment.
Sonia Parchure’s Daughter
Sonia Parchure, along with her late husband Atul Parchure, has a daughter named Sakheel Parchure. While Sakheel did not follow in her mother’s footsteps as a dancer, she has built a successful career in the fashion industry. She works as a fashion stylist and runs creative businesses such as Peppermint Bombay and The Arts Space. Despite their different career paths, Sonia and Sakheel share a close bond, and Sonia has often expressed her pride in her daughter’s achievements.
Sonia’s daughter has also played a crucial role in supporting the family, especially during the difficult period of Atul Parchure’s illness. Her presence during Atul’s cancer treatment and the family’s journey through those tough times speaks to the close-knit nature of the Parchure family
Sonia Parchure Family
Sonia Parchure was married to the late Atul Parchure, a respected figure in both Marathi and Hindi cinema. Atul was known for his comedic roles and made a significant impact in the film and television industries. The couple’s life was deeply intertwined with the arts, with both Sonia and Atul contributing to Indian culture in their own unique ways—Sonia through dance and Atul through acting
Sonia has always been vocal about the support she received from Atul throughout her career. In return, she provided unwavering support to him, especially during his battle with cancer, which he fought for two years before his passing in 2024. Together, the Parchures represented a family united by art and love for each other.
Sonia Parchure Dance Academy: Sharayu Nritya Kala Mandir
Sonia Parchure’s most significant contribution to the world of Kathak is perhaps through her dance academy, Sharayu Nritya Kala Mandir. Founded over two decades ago, the institution has grown to become one of the most respected Kathak training centers in Mumbai. The academy prides itself on teaching Kathak in its purest form, emphasizing the importance of tradition while also adapting to modern teaching methods.
With branches across multiple locations, including Thane, Matunga, Vile Parle, and even an online branch in Australia, the academy has reached a global audience. Sonia personally oversees the training of students, ensuring that they receive the highest quality of instruction. Many of her students have gone on to perform at national and international platforms, a testament to the academy’s success
The academy not only teaches Kathak but also focuses on instilling values of discipline and respect for the art form. Sonia’s commitment to nurturing young talent has made Sharayu Nritya Kala Mandir a breeding ground for future Kathak stars.
Performances and Achievements
Sonia Parchure’s career has been decorated with numerous accolades and memorable performances. Some of her most notable achievements include:
- Surya Bharat National Award (2021)
- Zee Gaurav Awards (2008, 2014)
- Stree Sanman Puraskaar by the Bharatiya Janata Party
Her performances, both in India and abroad, have captivated audiences. Notable performances include solo shows at the prestigious Khajuraho Dance Festival (2022), and the Krishna Ballet at the Parliament House in Delhi. Sonia has also performed internationally, representing Indian culture at various events, including performances in Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras
Conclusion
Sonia Parchure’s contributions to Kathak and Indian classical dance are immense. As a performer, choreographer, and educator, she has left an indelible mark on the dance community. Through her academy, Sharayu Nritya Kala Mandir, she continues to inspire the next generation of dancers, ensuring that the rich tradition of Kathak remains vibrant and relevant. Her dedication to her craft, her family, and her students has made her a pillar of the Indian classical arts, and her legacy will undoubtedly continue for years to come.
