In India, who is regarded as the father of modern dance?

Who was Uday Shankar?
Born in 1900 in Udaipur, Uday Shankar was a pioneering dancer and choreographer.
He is best known for creating a fusion style of dance that combined elements of Indian classical, folk, and tribal dances with Western theatrical techniques.
Unlike many classical dancers, Shankar had no formal training in traditional dance forms like Bharatanatyam or Kathak. Instead, he innovated a new style that emphasized expression, rhythm, and storytelling.
Why is he called the Father of Modern Dance in India?
He broke away from rigid classical traditions and introduced contemporary interpretations of Indian dance.
His performances in Europe and the United States during the 1920s and 1930s brought Indian dance to global audiences.
He established the Uday Shankar India Culture Centre in Almora (1938), which became a hub for training dancers, musicians, and artists in his unique style.
His work inspired generations of dancers, including his wife Amala Shankar, his children Ananda Shankar (musician) and Mamata Shankar (dancer/actress), and many others.

Recognition & Awards:
Honored with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship (1962).
Awarded the Padma Vibhushan (1971), India’s second-highest civilian award.
Remembered as a visionary who modernized Indian dance while keeping its cultural essence intact.

Significance
Uday Shankar’s contribution lies in bridging tradition and modernity.
He made dance accessible to wider audiences by blending ancient Indian themes with modern presentation styles.
His legacy continues to influence contemporary Indian dance and choreography today.
In short: Uday Shankar is regarded as the father of modern dance in India because of his innovative fusion style that transformed Indian dance into a global art form.