Manasi Kulkarni is a Kathak artist, educator, and the Founder & Artistic Director of the Kalakrit School of Art (KSOA), a premier center for Indian classical dance in Wichita, Kansas. Her work is dedicated to preserving and advancing the centuries-old tradition of Kathak, an art form rooted in rhythm, expression, and storytelling, while making it accessible and relevant to contemporary audiences.

Through KSOA, she provides rigorous, holistic training that nurtures technical excellence, artistic expression, and cultural identity. She is deeply committed to fostering cross-cultural understanding and building an inclusive arts ecosystem in the Midwest.

She leads the annual production Kathak Splendors, a professionally produced student recital that empowers artists of all ages to showcase their craft while introducing the broader community to the richness of Indian classical arts. Her work bridges tradition and innovation, transforming classical dance education into a vibrant platform for community connection, youth development, and cultural preservation.

A passionate cultural ambassador, Manasi collaborates with local arts organizations, museums, and universities to weave Indian classical arts into the region's cultural fabric. Through immersive workshops, performances, and meaningful cross-cultural dialogue, she demonstrates how ancient traditions can thrive, evolve, and find new relevance in communities around the world.

Beyond the arts, Manasi is a full-time IT professional at Textron Aviation, a dedicated community volunteer, and a mentor and leader for Kansas' Blood Cancer United's Student Visionaries of the Year program for the past several years. Through her artistic, professional, and community work, she strives to build connections, preserve cultural heritage, and inspire future generations through the transformative power of the arts.