Amala Shankar 1919 – 2020

Biography

Amala Shankar was born on June 27, 1919, in Jashore, beginning a life that would span more than a century. She became known as an Indian dancer, dedicating herself to the classical arts during a transformative period in India’s cultural history. Her long life witnessed tremendous change in her nation and in the world of dance itself.

Throughout her years, Amala Shankar contributed to Indian dance traditions, working during an era when classical forms were being preserved and celebrated. She lived through India’s independence movement and the development of modern India, remaining active in her artistic pursuits for many decades.

Amala Shankar passed away on July 24, 2020, in Kolkata at the remarkable age of 101. Her death marked the end of a century-long life, leaving behind a legacy connected to India’s rich dance heritage. She is remembered as part of an important generation of artists who helped sustain classical Indian dance traditions.