Pioneer work

Pioneer Work

As Swiss-Indian dancing couple known as Esther and Keshava, Esther Jenny and D. Keshava have toured through Switzerland and other European countries since 1976. The couple delighted the public and acted as pioneers for the promotion of the expressive Indian Dance, which, at the time was hardly known in Europe. Esther and Keshava received excellent reviews, were invited to present their programs in renowned theaters and also performed in India with great success. Parallel to their career as Classical Indian Dancers, they founded the first School of Indian Dance and Yoga Kalasri (richness of art) in Switzerland in 1976. Over time, they trained students in dance theory and practice and established the professional Kalasri Dance Ensemble.

Anjali, Ananda and Sumitra, the three children of the dancing couple Esther and Keshava, performed with their parents from early childhood on. Every year the family spent time in India for performances, new musical productions and additional training. Later Anjali and Sumitra trained to be professional dancers like their parents.

Since 1976 the Swiss-Indian dancing family has been a pioneer in contributing to better understanding between nations and the cultural exchange between India and Switzerland. As cultural ambassadors they have awakened great interest in Indian art, culture and philosophy.

Today, the Keshava family and the Kalasri Dance Ensemble are regularly invited to perform at theaters, festivals and on numerous other occasions. Their vast repertoire includes Classical Indian Dance forms, folkdances from various Indian regions, Bollywood style dances and innovative choreographies. Several Kalasri productions have been broadcasted by Swiss Television SF and Indian Television.

Keshava und Esther als Shiva und Parvati

Shiva und Parvati

Keshava Familie

Esther Jenny Keshava mit Guru Dr. K. Venkatalakshamma, die als letzte Rajadasi noch am Hofe des Königs von Mysore tanzte.