Parshwanath Upadhye

As a Bharatanatyam dancer, teacher, and producer, I create everything from traditional works to experimental productions and community festivals. I believe in building your own path with tenacity and discipline, while always finding the humor in the process.

This poster for our production "Abha" at Teatro Astra in Torino, Italy, captures the scale and artistry we bring to international stages. Curating events like this allows us to share the rich narrative of the Ramayana through Bharatanatyam with a global audience.

The Punyah Dance Festival is my passion project, a space for artists and art lovers to connect. This poster announces our third edition, a two-day immersive experience at Bangalore's iconic Ravindra Kalakshetra, filled with performances, workshops, and discussions.

The Punyah Theatre is our home base, an intimate venue where we host powerful productions like "Nagamandala". This poster reflects the dramatic and atmospheric performances we curate, providing a platform for both our own company and other talented artists.

Taking our art to new audiences is a vital part of my work. This poster announces our USA tour, where we premiered our new production "Astithva" and conducted intensive workshops, connecting with the Indian classical dance community abroad.

Hosting masters like Guru Smt. Sucheta Chapekar for talks at The Punyah Theatre is a profound honor. These "Antarang" sessions are about understanding the world of legendary artists, bridging generations and preserving the depth of our traditions.

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Arts Curation & Event Management

Events at Punyah Theatre in Kalkere; Manages events across Bengaluru

I run a space and festival where artists can perform, try new ideas, and connect with audiences, with open access and live streaming for wider reach.

30K-2L

per event

We are taking our art to the world. This poster announces our upcoming USA tour with Adithya PV, where we will be premiering new work and conducting intensive workshops for dancers in America.

The heart of learning is in the listening and observing. This moment captures the deep concentration and emotional connection, or Bhava, of students as they absorb the details of a lesson.

The stage is where hard work transforms into art. Here is a student performing a piece from "Sādhana Kēri," a Bharatanatyam Margam based on the beautiful poetry of Da. Ra. Bendre.

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Bharatanatyam Dance Training & Workshops

Classes at NRI Layout & Chikhale; Workshops across Bengaluru; Online sessions available

I teach Bharatanatyam through online classes, in-person workshops in India and abroad, and immersive residential retreats, focusing on daily practice, technique, and honest feedback for all levels.

3,000-7,000

per 2-day group workshop per participant

A powerful moment from my production 'SUTÃ', where we use dramatic lighting to explore the deep bond between a father and daughter. This is storytelling through dance.

The energy of 'ATAH', a duet I perform with Adithya PV. We use smoke and light to create a dynamic atmosphere on stage, telling a story of connection.

An expressive moment from a solo performance of 'ATAH'. This is where I connect directly with the audience, sharing the story through intricate expressions and gestures.

A scene from 'ĀBHA', our retelling of the Ramayana. This trio performance with Shruti Gopal and Adithya PV is a blend of individual expression and synchronized group choreography.

The dramatic storytelling of 'Naga Mandala'. We use light and shadow to create a world of mystery and intensity, with three dancers weaving a single narrative.

A moment of perfect synchronicity from 'Raag Raagini', my collaborative duet blending the styles of Bharatanatyam and Kathak. This jump captures the energy of two distinct art forms meeting.

Announcing 'Tyāg', a new production where I collaborate with Yakshagana artist Keremane Shridhara Hegde. We are excited to bring this retelling of the Adi Purana to the stage.

Dance is not confined to the stage. Here, I am exploring the form and posture of Narasimha amidst nature, connecting the art to its elemental roots.

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Dance Performances & Productions

Performances at Punyah Theatre in Kalkere; Travels across India for shows

I present solo and group Bharatanatyam shows, original productions with live music, and collaborative works that mix classical dance styles.

40K-5L

per performance

Meet your expert

Parshwanath Upadhye

My Story

Namaste, I’m Parshwanath. No shortcuts for me - I waited, doubted, got rejected, then built my own stage. Punyah Theatre in Bangalore? That’s my crazy dream come true, a spot for artists who don’t want to wait for someone else’s approval. I find joy in silly things like tummy jitters before shows or hunting for the perfect tiger photo. My humor’s a bit off, memes everywhere. I believe in making art with joy, fire, and a stubborn heart.

My Work

Bharatanatyam & Collaborations - I perform Bharatanatyam, sometimes mixing it up with Yakshagana or Kathak in productions like 'Tyāg' and 'Samvād'.

Teaching & Antar Shaala - I teach dance at Upadhye School, from online classes to Bharatanatyam residential workshops at Abhyasa Shaala. Expect memes, discipline, and finding your own voice.

Experimental Productions - I love retelling classics - like Mahabharata dance retelling in 'Maya', or new takes in 'NagaMandala' and 'Abha'.

Punyah Theatre & Festivals - We run Punyah Theatre, organize Punyah Dance Festival, Nartaka Festival - a place for all to dance, learn, and just be.

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Parshwanath Upadhye