Immersive Bharatanatyam Workshops and Masterclasses
Join me in exploring the depths of Bharatanatyam through intensive masterclasses and collaborative workshops designed to sharpen your technique and deepen your understanding of our classical traditions.
In my studio with the wonderful Kathak artist Prachee Shah Paandya. It was a joy to mentor her and craft a piece, exploring the shared principles across different classical dance forms.
A happy moment of collaboration. The guru-shishya relationship is about sharing and growing together, and I find great fulfillment in mentoring dedicated artists.
Exploring the nuances of a Dandayudapani Pillai varnam. In my masterclasses, we revisit these gems of our parampara, finding new possibilities in them each time.
A clip from the Bhairavi varnam "Mohamaana". My abhinaya masterclasses focus on improvising and elaborating on an idea while staying true to the poem's intent.
A moment of intense discussion during rehearsals for "Songs of the Millstone". My workshops are collaborative spaces where we explore movement and meaning together.
Guiding dancers through a movement sequence in the studio. The process of creation involves a lot of experimentation and physical exploration.
Working with music director Anirudh Varma during a workshop for "Songs of the Millstone". Music is the springboard for all our choreographic explorations.
Explaining the concept behind "Songs of the Millstone" during a pre-production interview. My workshops often lead to full-fledged stage productions.
A candid moment of joy and camaraderie with the dancers during a rehearsal. The process of learning and creating together is just as important as the final performance.
The dancers of "Songs of the Millstone" during a creative session. My workshops aim to build a sense of ensemble and shared purpose.
About Immersive Workshops & Masterclasses
In my intensive masterclasses, we move beyond basic steps to rigorously analyze the abhinaya (facial expression) and posture correction of traditional compositions. Whether we are revisiting a Dandayudapani Pillai varnam or exploring new movement sequences, the focus remains on detailed, hands-on mentorship where you receive immediate feedback on your technique, ensuring you understand the bhava (emotion) behind every gesture.
A Deep Dive into Technique
My workshops are not dry, theoretical lectures. They are rigorous, hands-on environments rooted in the guru-shishya parampara. Whether you are a student refining your nritta (pure dance) or a practitioner looking to sharpen your storytelling, we break down complex pieces into manageable, meaningful segments. We spend hours focusing on the geometry of your posture and the clarity of your mudras, ensuring that every movement is intentional and connected to the rhythm.
The Focus on Abhinaya
For advanced dancers, my sessions on abhinaya are central. We do not just perform movements; we unpack the poetry and the intent behind them. We explore how to internalize a composition, making it your own while remaining faithful to the original choreography. This involves improvisation, constant experimentation, and learning how to communicate a narrative arc to your audience, even if you are just beginning to find your voice.
Accessible Arts Appreciation
If you are new to the arts, my appreciation workshops are designed to demystify classical dance. I guide you through the basics of tala (rhythm) and raga (melody), showing you how to watch a performance with a more informed eye. These sessions are perfect for schools, corporate teams, or anyone curious about India's artistic legacy. We bridge the gap between spectator and participant, helping you develop the aesthetic sensibility of a true rasika (art connoisseur).
Why Join Our Sessions?
- Intensive Mentorship: With session sizes capped to ensure quality, you receive direct, personalized corrections.
- Holistic Learning: We weave history and philosophy into our dance practice, giving you the context behind the art.
- Collaborative Spirit: I frequently host guest artists and musicians, allowing you to learn in an environment that simulates real-world performance conditions.
Geeta Chandran
I am Geeta Chandran, and I believe dance is a lifelong conversation with our culture. Through Natya Vriksha, I invite you to step into our studio, where we treat every workshop not just as a lesson, but as a shared space for deep, reflective learning.
Looking for something else?
Explore other dance programs or arts education sessions I offer.
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