Featured Bharatanatyam Choreography & Performance Highlights
A curated glimpse into my world of dance, from large-scale thematic productions to intimate solo recitals. Explore the stories I tell on stage.
A moment of unity with my Chithkala School of Dance ensemble for our production, 'Tyāgarāja Hṛt Sadana'. My choreography is deeply rooted in creating a visual symphony, where each dancer contributes to a larger, cohesive story.
Exploring the fusion of Bharatanatyam and contemporary dance in 'Tatsama Tadbhava'. This collaboration allowed us to delve into the dualities of human nature, blending traditional abhinaya with modern movement.
A portrait of my student, Srujana, during her Rangaabhivandane. Guiding a dancer to this milestone is a profound journey, where I focus on crafting a repertoire that celebrates their unique artistry and passion.
A glimpse into my solo thematic presentation, 'Sharanagathi'. In my solo work, I delve into intricate footwork and layered expressions to explore complex spiritual and emotional themes on stage.
A moment of pure abandon from 'Ṛtú Vismruti', a production that uses Kalidasa’s poetry to address the urgent issue of climate change. Here, dance becomes a powerful medium for contemporary storytelling.
The art of abhinaya, or expression, is the soul of Bharatanatyam. Here, my student Meenakshi captures a nuanced emotion during her Rangaabhivandane, a culmination of our shared journey in art.
Portraying the longing of Krishna for Radha, this piece is an exploration of subtle abhinaya. My solo choreography often focuses on the Nayaka perspective, bringing the hero's emotions to the forefront.
About this collection
My work is inseparable from live music. Whether it is a solo recital or a group production, I insist on a live orchestra because that spontaneous energy between the dancer and the musicians is what truly brings the performance to life. It is not just choreography; it is a shared creative conversation on stage.
At Chithkala School of Dance, we view Bharatanatyam as a living dialogue. My choreography frequently shifts the lens, moving beyond traditional heroine-focused narratives to explore the Nayaka, or hero's, emotional landscape—a unique angle I have developed over years of study. I often draw inspiration from Kalidasa’s poetry, adapting classic themes like nature and society into movement that resonates with contemporary audiences.
My process is rooted in the Tanjur quartet repertoire, providing a strong structural foundation while allowing for experimental fusions. You will notice in my work that I am equally passionate about large ensemble productions as I am about one-on-one mentorship for Arangetrams. Every project is built on partnership, whether it involves teaming up with fellow dancers, puppeteers, or Carnatic musicians. If you are looking to bring a thematic performance to life or need guidance on your solo journey, my studio in Basavanagudi is where we start that conversation.
Praveen Kumar
I am Praveen Kumar. For me, teaching, performing, and choreographing are all part of one big family. I do not just teach steps; I help you find the story you want to tell, whether you are a seasoned dancer or beginning your Rangaabhivandane.
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