About us

What is Manaswini Arts

Manaswini Arts was born from a shared love for dance — a love that has brought us joy, strength, and fulfillment over many years. Founded by Manali Phadke, trained in Bharatanatyam, and Ashwini Katre-Kulkarni, trained in Kathak, Manaswini Arts is the coming together of two distinct classical journeys rooted in rhythm, expression, and tradition.

Though our professional paths led us beyond full-time classical training, dance remained a constant in our lives — grounding us, uplifting us, and connecting us to community. Through Manaswini Arts, we saw the opportunity to blend our experiences, styles, and passion to create something meaningful: a space that nurtures dancers, celebrates culture, and opens doors for dance lovers of all backgrounds.

At Manaswini Arts, we go beyond regular dance classes. Our choreographies are thoughtfully tailored to suit individual needs and abilities, including dance lovers with any physical limitations — because dance should feel empowering, not restrictive.

We proudly welcome dance lovers of all ages. Whether you are a beginner, a returning dancer, or a lifelong performer, our classes are designed to be inclusive, supportive, and joyful.

Our mission

Why we do this

At Manaswini Arts, our mission is to create a welcoming and inclusive space where Indian semi-classical, folk, and Bollywood dance come together — where tradition meets expression and every individual feels empowered, confident, and free.

We strive to share not just technique and choreography, but the joy, calm, balance, and fulfillment that dance has brought into our own lives.

Our vision

Where we are going

Our vision is to build a vibrant dance community in Tampa that celebrates culture, through collaboration, workshops with accomplished guest artists, and cultural events.

Meet the founders

Two journeys, one stage

Manali Phadke

Co-FounderBharatanatyam

I am a research scientist by profession and an Indian classical dance artist. I was born and raised in Thane, India, which is where my passion for dance began at a very early age. I gained formal training in Bharatanatyam, an Indian classical dance form, at Nrityanjali Academy, Thane. Bharatanatyam taught me to understand rhythm, master technical precision, elegant posture, and expressive storytelling. It not only gave me the joy to learn but also trained me for a committed and disciplined lifestyle.

Over a period of years, due to career choices and the big move to the United States, I was unable to continue with my formal training. However, I ensured that my connection with dance was not lost, by participating in various cultural events and competitions in college and university. After I settled with my family in Tampa, I was once again able to reconnect with my passion by performing at multiple events organized by Marathi Mandal and other Indian organizations. Recommencing my passion not only gave me the happiness, mental peace, and confidence I wanted, but I was also able to make some of the finest friends in a new city. I very much believe that dancing is one of the best channels to socialize with likeminded people.

Dance for me is a limitless form of art. The more you impart to others, the more you learn. Dancing helps one express their emotions, tell stories, and showcase aesthetic beauty in the purest form. Dance is a celebration of life for everyone who believes in it. For me, dance is meditation. It takes me to a place where I can be true to myself and carefree. I am happy and proud that I have been able to experience and learn one of the most beautiful forms of art.

Today, I am excited to share my love for dance through Manaswini Arts. As a co-founder, I am eagerly looking forward to connecting with those who share the same passion for dance as me. Let us dance through life.

Ashwini Katre-Kulkarni

Co-FounderKathak

Born and raised in Kolhapur, India, dance has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. It has always been my space of joy, comfort, and self-expression. I received formal training in Kathak under the guidance of a renowned guru in India, which deeply shaped my understanding of rhythm, grace, and storytelling through movement.

While my classical training could not continue in a formal way after the move to the US, my connection to dance never faded. Dance remained my constant — bringing me happiness, peace, confidence, and balance through every phase of life. It has been my way of finding calm and reconnecting with myself amidst the demands of a fast-paced professional and personal life.

Over the years, I have stayed closely connected to dance through community platforms such as Marathi Mandals and other cultural events.

Dance, for me, has no boundaries. It is for everyone. It has helped me reduce stress, supported my mental and physical well-being, and strengthened my confidence from within. Through movement, I have experienced healing, clarity, and a deep sense of inner peace.

As a co-founder of Manaswini Arts, I am excited to share my journey, experience, and love for dance with other likeminded individuals!

The name

Why “Manaswini”?

Manaswini means a woman who is intelligent, self-respecting, and proud of her strength and character. That spirit defines our philosophy.

Come join us in exploring the Manaswini within you!

It is also a fun portmanteau of the co-founders’ names — MANAli + ashWINI.

Come dance with us

Whether you are planning a celebration, looking for a workshop, or dancing for the first time since childhood — we would love to hear from you.

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