Praveen Kumar

About

Bharatanatyam is just part of my life, not something separate. I see performing, teaching, and choreographing as one big journey, with all the rasikas (art lovers) along for the ride. If you’re looking for something heartfelt, I like to share both the comfort of tradition and the thrill of new ideas.

Performance Styles

I’ve got two main ways I perform:

• Solo Recitals: These are up-close, personal, and often dig into themes you don’t see much, like the emotions of a male protagonist (Nayaka). I've made it a point to create space for stories that aren’t just about the Nayika (heroine).
• Group Productions: With my Chithkala Ensemble, we go all out - think Bharatanatyam musical dance theatre. Big, colourful, sometimes even grand.

What’s In The Shows

• My solo works include pieces like "SAKHA - A friend" and "SHARANAGATHI", plus traditional Thanjavur classics.
• Our group work includes productions like "Tyāgarāja Hṛt Sādana" and collaborations mixing Bharatanatyam and other styles.
• I’m not afraid to step out of mythology. You might see themes like climate change or stories about fabrics woven in. Late adhru latest agi bandhe (even if I’m late, I bring the latest).

The Full Package

Most of my shows feature a live orchestra — vocalist, nattuvangam, mridangam, flute — because for me, Bharatanatyam with live orchestra just hits different.

Where You’ll Find Me

Based in Bengaluru, but I travel where the art takes me — all over India and even the US.