India Untold

Himanshu Bajpai: Keeping the Art of Dastangoi Alive

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Dastongoi artist Himanshu Bajpai previously worked as a journalist

He found no fulfilment in his work and decided to pursue a different career.
 

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Himanshu Bajpai is a resident of Raja Bazaar, Lucknow

His father is a retired government teacher and his mother is a homemaker. His diverse upbringing in the diverse culture of old Lucknow honed his eloquent speech. 
 

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In 2021, Himanshu was honoured with the Sahitya Akademi Award

He earned his PhD from Mahatma Gandhi International Hindi University in Wardha. His work focused on Naval Kishore Press in Lucknow. 
 

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Himanshu’s friend Ankit encouraged him to explore Dastangoi

He embarked on this journey and made his first performance with Ankit in October 2014. 
 

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Learning from each other

Ankit taught Himanshu about the nuances of language, scenes and atmosphere in Dastangoi. Their collaborative performances made waves on the stage. 
 

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Facing a tragic loss

Ankit passed away on 9 May 2018 due to a drowning incident while river rafting. That phase was incredibly challenging for Himanshu. 
 

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A true artist

Himanshu Bajpai persevered and decided to continue the work solo. Soon Dastangoi evolved into a full-time pursuit for him.
 

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So far, Himanshu has performed in 350 shows

The former President Ram Nath Kovind invited him to participate in the Harvard Worldwide Week organized by Harvard University. 
 

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A renowned artist

Prime Minister appreciated Himanshu Bajpai’s performance on Rani Durgavati’s story during one of his Mann Ki Baat speeches.

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