Bharatanatyam Performances
Available across India
I perform Bharatanatyam solo and with my ensemble, focusing on rare themes like male protagonists and new ideas, always with a live orchestra.
Pricing Guide
Solo Bharatanatyam Recital with Live Orchestra
Artist & Performance
- Principal Artist: Solo performance by Sri Praveen Kumar.
- Duration: 60 to 90 minutes of performance time.
- Format: Traditional 'Margam' suite or thematic storytelling (e.g., 'Sakha' or 'Krishna' themes).
- Style: Includes both 'Abhinaya' (expressive storytelling) and 'Nritta' (pure technical dance).
Live Musical Ensemble
- Vocalist: Professional Carnatic singer.
- Percussion: Mridangam artist for rhythm.
- Melodic Support: Flute or Violin artist.
- Nattuvangam: Rhythmic conductor using cymbals.
- Interaction: Live improvisation between dancers and musicians on stage.
Production & Logistics
- Costumes: Premium Kanjeevaram silk dance costumes and temple jewelry.
- Makeup: Professional stage makeup and hair styling with fresh flowers.
- Tech Requirements: Client to provide stage audio monitors and 5 microphones (2 instruments, 3 vocals).
- Sound Check: 30 minute technical check required prior to the event.
Grand Theatrical Ensemble Production
Cast & Choreography
- Lead Dancer: Sri Praveen Kumar.
- Troupe: 6 to 8 highly trained dancers from the Chithkala Ensemble.
- Performance Style: Intricate group formations, synchronized footwork, and theatrical storytelling (Ramayana or Tyagaraja themes).
Musical & Technical Elements
- Live Orchestra: Full 5 piece Carnatic ensemble to support group dynamics.
- Lighting: Includes a lighting script and technician to manage stage moods.
- Audio: High definition live sound mix required.
Visuals & Logistics
- Costumes: Thematic, color coordinated high end costumes for the entire troupe.
- Props: Usage of hand props and minimal stage sets relevant to the story.
- Stage Size: Minimum dimension of 20ft x 15ft required for group movement.
- Crew: Includes travel and logistics for a team of 12 to 15 people.
About Bharatanatyam Performances
What Drives My Dance
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.
Meet your Expert
Praveen Kumar
106 connects in last 3 months
My Story
Namaskara! We are Chithkala School of Dance, led by Praveen Kumar in Bengaluru. Bharatanatyam is our heartbeat – performing, teaching, creating, it’s all one big family-pack for us. We love stories, digging into the hero’s journey, not just the heroine’s. Poetry, especially Kalidasa’s, fires up our imagination and movement. Art is ‘Shwasa Vishwasa’ (life breath) for us – no myths, just pure dance for everyone.
My Work
Bharatanatyam Performances & Ensemble Shows - We perform solo and group pieces, exploring themes like Sakha and Vani with deep emotion.
Nayaka-centric Choreography - Our work often dives into the hero’s emotions, blending Tanjur quartet repertoire and new ideas.
Chithkala School of Dance Classes - We teach all levels, celebrating each student’s energy and style in every composition.
Advanced Bharatanatyam Workshops - Workshops for intermediate and senior dancers, mastering studio-recorded Thillana and other elegant pieces.
