Astad Deboo, 70
A remarkably versatile repertoire is what defines Padma Shri recipient Astad Deboo’s career spanning over five decades. The dancer-choreographer, who began his training in kathak at the tender age of six, found his calling in contemporary dance in his twenties. And to perfect the art, he trained in institutes of international repute, including learning Martha Graham’s modern dance technique. He returned to India and learnt kathakali, and his unique style paved the way for collaborations with renowned artistes like Pina Bausch and Pink Floyd. He even choreographed Bolshoi Theatre’s ace ballerina, Maya Plisetskaya. All these years of strenuous performances haven’t deterred him from continuing to push his limits. In fact, hour-long performances are still the norm for Deboo, who turns 71 this July.