Astad Deboo

A biography that unveils the iconic life, innovative choreography, and enduring legacy of Astad Deboo, a pioneer of Indian modern dance.

 

Astad Deboo (1947–2020), widely considered a pioneer of modern dance in India, was globally renowned for his distinctive style, characterized by meditative minimalism, gravity-defying backbends, and signature whirls which defined his innovative approach to form and content. In this first biography and book-length appreciation of Deboo’s work, Ketu H. Katrak unveils the remarkable life, choreography, and legacy of this groundbreaking figure in Indian modern dance. Through a comprehensive exploration, readers journey from Deboo's formative years in Jamshedpur and Bombay to his global endeavors that shaped his unique dance style.

 

Divided into four parts, this biography sheds light on various aspects of Deboo’s life and career: his youth, schooling, and the friendships that shaped him; his solo choreography, which boldly addressed social issues and fused modern dance with traditional elements; his humanitarian spirit, showcasing group choreography with deaf performers and Manipuri drum-dancers; and his mastery in collaborating with artists from India and abroad.

 

From receiving prestigious awards to transforming lives through dance, traveling around the world for over five decades yet being firmly rooted in Indian soil, Deboo left an indelible mark on contemporary Indian dance. Astad Deboo: An Icon of Contemporary Indian Dance pays homage to the dancer’s legendary status, emphasizing his unparalleled dedication and resilience—a guiding light for aspiring dancers striving to realize their artistic visions. It is a valuable addition to scholarship on dance studies, performance studies, and South Asian studies.