- BY HASTKALA
For nearly 23 years, dance has been at the heart of Leena Bhosale’s life. Beginning her journey at the age of nine, the Thane-born Kathak dancer grew from a passionate student to a dedicated performer and teacher, travelling for shows and shaping young dancers across the city. Along the way, she discovered a challenge that would ultimately become her purpose.
Despite Thane’s growth as a cultural hub, Leena noticed a surprising gap: the lack of professional, designer costume options for dancers. For years, performers had to travel to Andheri or Goregaon to find unique, stage-ready outfits. To Leena, this was more than an inconvenience — it was an opportunity to bring dignity and confidence to dancers in her own city.
This insight inspired the launch of her new venture.
In May this year, Leena officially introduced The Costumes Kalakar, a dedicated dance costume label in Thane. More than a business, it is the answer to a need she personally experienced throughout her career. Her studio today is a vibrant space filled with colours, fabrics, embellishments, and the artistic energy she pours into every design.
The journey to this milestone, however, was far from easy. Financial constraints delayed Leena’s dream for years. She continued teaching, choreographing, and saving — going from home to home for private lessons and training small groups in colleges — until she could finally bring her vision to life. Every step, no matter how small, paved the way.
Today, Leena’s work extends far beyond local performers. She has designed costumes for renowned artists, including Bollywood actress Prachee Shah and Marathi actor Samruddhi Kelkar, and her creations have even travelled overseas to Australia for cultural events and performances.
Yet, she believes her journey has just begun.
Leena sees immense potential in Thane and in the many women striving to build their own paths. Her message remains simple and inspiring: “A woman can do anything when she decides to.”
With The Costumes Kalakar, Leena aims to ensure that dancers no longer need to leave Thane to feel stage-ready. She hopes to offer every performer the same confidence she once sought — right here in her hometown.
– KHUSHI KAMBLE