Michael Salickram

To witness a production by Michael Salickram is to experience a journey of emotion, colour, and storytelling in motion. His life and dance are inseparable; to speak of one is to speak of the other. From an early age, he found his voice through movement, choreographing his very first performance at just nine years old, an early sign of the visionary he would become.

Over the years, Michael has taught generations of children across Trinidad and Tobago the art of expression through dance, shaping not only performers but confident, culturally aware individuals. His work reflects the vibrant diversity of the islands, seamlessly blending Bhangra, Bollywood, Traditional Indian, African, Folk, and Caribbean movements into a style uniquely his own. Each production stands as a celebration of heritage, rhythm, and unity.

At sixteen, his passion became his profession when he partnered with Sandra Mathura, marking the beginning of a lifelong commitment to the performing arts. In 1987, he founded the Shiv Shakti Dance Company, determined to share his gift with others. For more than two decades, the company has flourished, operating in eight locations throughout Trinidad and bringing the discipline and joy of dance to countless students.

Michael’s excellence has been recognised on prestigious platforms. He was the Winner of the ever popular Mastana Bahar (talent show in Trinidad & Tobago) in 1992 and of Scouting for Talent in 2002. In 2009, he served as choreographer for CHOGAM (Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting), performing in the presence of Her Majesty the Queen of England.

In 2007, he achieved a landmark milestone in his career by making his debut in the Bollywood film industry, widely regarded as the largest film industry in the world. He was selected as a choreographer to work alongside leading industry professionals on the film “Dulhan Mil Gaya”, a defining accomplishment that elevated his name onto the international stage.

Yet beyond the accolades and global recognition, Michael Salickram remains, at heart, a devoted teacher and cultural ambassador. His greatest fulfilment lies in inspiring others, pouring his love for dance into every performance and every student he mentors. His enduring hope is simple but profound: to continue sharing the joy of dance with the world, and through it, to honour the beautiful cultural landscape of his homeland, Trinidad and Tobago.

“Do you have a special memory captured on film or audio? Please email any photos, videos, or audio recordings you may have to hindisongstt@gmail.com. We are looking to preserve the many beautiful moments shared with the dynamite and magnificent Michael Salickram. ”(Copyright Hindisongstt 2026).