Hrishikesh Pawar, Founder/Artistic Director of the Centre of Contemporary Dance in Pune, seamlessly blends Kathak and Western influences in his unique contemporary dance style. Awarded the McArthur Fellowship for 2015/16 and nominated for the Lucy Bowen Award 2024, he has showcased collaborative works at international festivals. As a visiting faculty at prestigious institutions and a TEDx speaker, he emphasizes the transformative power of dance. His community-focused initiatives include skill development through dance for marginalized individuals and work with Parkinson's patients affiliated with the Mark Morris Group, USA. Hrishikesh's mantra: "Communities come together through DANCE."