Our Founders

Henna Khanijou

My love for dance began at a very young age, winning competitions as early as 3 years old.

From the start, I’ve been deeply passionate about dance and entertainment. Over time, this passion merged with my love for teaching, confirming that this was the path I was meant to follow. After spending 21 years under the guidance of my Guruji, Pandit Satya Narayana Charka, I felt ready to carry forward his legacy to the next generation.

While I’m professionally trained in Kathak, my enthusiasm extends to Bollywood and Hip Hop as well. I enjoy pushing myself to explore new dance styles and learning about different cultures.

  • What is your favorite travel destination?

    I feel like I still have so much to see! But as of right now, my favorite travel destination is always India. It is a perfect balance of the two - family + leisure.

  • Who is a part of your family?

    I have a supportive husband and a beautiful daughter who has brought good luck into our lives. We have our fur babies, Zoro and Mocha, and our angel Molly. My parents, in-laws, and brother-in-law are also the biggest supporting pillars throughout my life, and I couldn’t imagine a day without them.

  • Do you volunteer? If so, where?

    I am a founding member of the New York Kathak Festival, a 501(c)3 organization based out of NYC working to build Kathak in NY.

  • What is your current job title, and where do you work?

    If only KalaKriti could be my full-time job. But sadly, not yet (yet being the operative word). I love what I do for my full-time job, other than teach dance! I own a Fertility agency based out of NJ, where we work with Intended Parents to help complete their families via IVF, egg donation, and surrogacy.

  • If you could give a younger person career advice, what would it be?

    Never set your heart in stone on what you want to do at a young age. It is great to have goals and set goals, but always be open to change. Know your mind and body enough and listen to its signs.

Urvashie Kissoon

Urvashie Kissoon is a dedicated Indian classical dancer, choreographer, and instructor whose journey in dance is rooted in a strong and diverse foundation. She began her training in Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi, graduating in both disciplines in 2012, before expanding her artistic path into Kathak, completing her formal training in 2018.

Blending the sculptural precision of Bharatanatyam, the fluidity of Kuchipudi, and the intricate rhythm and expression of Kathak, Urvashie brings a unique depth and versatility to her work. She has performed across the Tri-State area at cultural festivals, community showcases, and curated productions, where her performances are known for their grace, musicality, and emotive storytelling.

At KalaKriti, Urvashie is deeply passionate about teaching and mentorship. She is committed to creating a nurturing and disciplined environment where students not only build strong technical foundations but also develop confidence, artistry, and a meaningful connection to Indian classical dance traditions.

  • What is your favorite travel destination?

    Anything and everything Disney/Disneyland! Although I had the best time at Disneyland in Japan (my proposal happened here!)

  • Who is a part of your family?

    I have a very helpful husband, and we live with my even more helpful parents. My brother, sister-in-law, niece, and nephew are always the apple of my eye. Our three rescue Husky fur babies, Slade, the youngest, Ivy, who is a tan and white middle child, and Harley, who is our big mama, are the most important of them all!

  • Do you volunteer? If so, where?

    I am a founding member of the New York Kathak Festival, a 501(c)3 organization based out of NYC, working to build Kathak in NY.

  • What is your current job title, and where do you work?

    I am a construction manager for the ICU Department at NYU Langone in Brooklyn, NY. I have recently started taking public transportation to my workplace, and wow - what a game changer!

  • If you could give a younger person career advice, what would it be?

    Focus on building strong, transferable skills—not just chasing titles. Start before you feel ready, and don’t be afraid to explore different paths. Most importantly, be reliable, kind, and easy to work with—those qualities open more doors than anything else.