Sheema Kermani

Sheema Kermani is a pioneering Pakistani classical dancer, theatre practitioner, and social activist whose work has reshaped the cultural landscape of Pakistan. Born in Rawalpindi, she grew up in a family rooted in Lucknow and Hyderabad Deccan, moving across various cities due to her father’s military career. These early experiences—and frequent visits to her maternal grandparents in India—nurtured her interest in the performing arts. Sheema began learning Western classical music at age eight and transitioned to classical Indian dance at thirteen, training under renowned instructors Mr. and Mrs. Ghanshyam in Karachi. She later joined their institute as both performer and teacher. A dedicated student of the arts, she studied fine arts in London, earned a BA from the University of the Punjab, and completed postgraduate degrees in History at the University of Karachi. As the founder of Tehrik‑e‑Niswan Cultural Action Group, established in 1979, Sheema has used dance, theatre, and activism to champion women’s rights, peace, and cultural expression. She remained Pakistan’s sole performing dancer during General Zia‑ul‑Haq’s martial law, defying restrictions that targeted dance as immoral. Her contributions have earned national and international acclaim, including the Pride of Performance (2023).