Illuminated by stage lights, Prerana’s poised silhouette captivates audiences, each movement radiating grace and every expression narrating a story. A dedicated artist and educator, Prerana’s journey from a small town in Rajasthan to the international stage is a testament to her unwavering passion and resilience. Her life is a rich tapestry woven with threads of struggle, sacrifice, and triumph, illustrating the profound impact of following one’s dreams against all odds.
Shrimali was born to an orthodox family in Banswara, Rajasthan. Her family was one where education was above all. Her father, a journalist, made her understand that hard work and discipline were necessary to secure her future.
“Then, we did not think about careers at early age like children do today,” she reminisces. “I was very studious, and wanted to be an IAS officer, but my economics was weak, and dance was an escape from economics,” she confesses.
The Early Struggles
In 1984, he took a firm step and moved to Delhi without her family’s permission as dance was always considered as a hobby in her society but not as a career.
After reaching Delhi, she started her training under her Guru Kundan Lal Gangani ji. Her early days in Delhi were filled with strife. Having no fixed income and no familial backing, making ends meet became an everyday ordeal.
“Rent was a constant worry. But I couldn’t afford to give up.” She recalls
A turning point arrived when she received an invitation to perform at the prestigious Khajuraho Dance Festival. “My Guruji received a telegram(at that time, artists used to receive invitations 6 months prior ), and he was so happy as he wanted to show what Jaipur Gharana is all about, but unfortunately, before the event, he died, and I was clueless. Since I only had 5 years of training”
Somehow, despite facing all these challenges. She managed to perform at the Khajuraho Dance Festival.
“Performing at Khajuraho was a significant achievement and my first solo performance. It was an international-level event, and being invited to perform solo was a dream come true,” she recalls. This chance set the stage for her brilliant dance career on a path that she had never envisioned.
Her performance at Khajuraho Dance Festival turned her career around. The performance received wide coverage in the media, leading to a host of opportunities.
Once you become known, opportunities follow,” Prerana says.
The festival was also witnessed by media people and art lovers from all over the world, and her mesmerizing performance proved unforgettable. Afterwards, she never looked back, yet still uncertain about dance as a career.
“Choosing a dance career comes with risks. It’s not a secure job with fixed earnings; it’s like the mythical Chatak bird, always waiting for the right opportunity,” she reflects.
The uncertainty of the dance world used to leave her troubled, but she stayed committed.
Building a Legacy
After living in Delhi for years, the COVID-19 pandemic brought Shrimali back to Jaipur, and she set up her dance academy.
“Operating an academy is not simple. I am a performer, not an entrepreneur,” she confesses. “The greatest challenge is money—raising funds to keep and grow the institution.”
Unfazed by the challenges of operating a school of education, Prerana worked hard at the academy, vowing to deliver top-notch training to would-be dancers.
Aware of the influence of social media on dance perception, Prerana launched the Yuva Ekal series, an initiative for young dancers to display their talent all over India.
Today’s students are often expecting instant fame from a one-minute Instagram reel, but real dance takes years of intense practice,” she points out.
In “Yuva Ekal,” she hopes to kindle patience and commitment in students, bridging the gap between the classical style and modern-day needs.
Financial struggle is still there. She often reaches out to sponsors, government bodies, and art patrons, but the response is slow. So, mostly she has to sponsor the events herself.
Inspiring Future Generations
Prerana Shrimali is a shining example of persistence today, a testament to the fact that true artistry does not lie in momentary glory but in dogged commitment through decades of hardship.
Her success is a reflection of her commitment: she has performed for India at international dance festivals of repute, toured Europe, the USA, and Southeast Asia, and introduced world-class recognition to classical Indian dance. Prerana has received several national awards, worked with the elite artists, and held workshops to maintain the integrity of the art.
Through her performances and her dedication to mentoring the future generation of classical dancers, Shrimali is not only keeping an art form alive; she is creating the next generation of dancers who will pass on this cultural heritage. Her tale is a strong reminder that passion, grit, and devotion can overcome barriers, motivating future generations.
As she says, “Hard work is essential, but opportunity at the right time with luck is needed to become successful.”
