Bharatanatyam Training & Workshops
Chithkala School Of Dance
I teach Bharatanatyam from basics to advanced, with stage performance chances, Arangetram coaching, and workshops that mix tradition and today’s style.
Pricing Guide
Regular Monthly Classes (Foundation to Proficiency)
Core Training Structure
- Frequency: 8 sessions per month (Twice weekly schedule).
- Session Length: 60 to 75 minutes of rigorous practice.
- Curriculum: Progression from Adavus (footwork) to full Margam (repertoire) using Kalakshetra styling.
- Theory: Integrated lessons on Viniyoga (hand gestures), Talam (rhythm), and dance history.
Studio Facilities
- Flooring: Traditional Red Oxide flooring designed to reduce impact on knees and joints.
- Class Size: Small to mid-sized groups (8-12 students) allowing for individual posture correction.
Mentorship & Standards
- Guidance: Supervision by Shri Praveen Kumar (intermittent for beginners) and senior disciples.
- Musicality: Exposure to live Talam/Nattuvangam practice to understand rhythm beyond recorded tracks.
- Etiquette: Strict adherence to practice saree/uniform and traditional Namaskaram protocols.
Intensive Thematic Workshops (Intermediate & Advanced)
Workshop Structure
- Duration: 8 to 12 hours of total instruction delivered over 2-3 days.
- Focus: Learning one complete composition (e.g., Padam, Javali, Thillana) or a thematic nuance.
- Eligibility: Designed for dancers with 5+ years of training or post-Arangetram status.
Study Materials
- Audio: Provision of high-quality studio-recorded tracks for the specific item learned.
- Video: Permission to record choreography breakdowns for personal practice reference.
- Context: Dedicated Q&A session on the literary meaning (Sahitya) and context.
Certification
- Completion: Certificate provided upon finishing the intensive module.
Full Arangetram Mentorship & Conducting
Pre-Event Preparation
- Intensive Coaching: 6 to 9 months of dedicated training with 3-4 sessions per week.
- Custom Choreography: Tailoring a full Margam including a bespoke Varnam to suit the dancer's strengths.
- Orchestra Rehearsals: 3 to 4 full creative rehearsals with the live musical ensemble at the studio.
Performance Day Execution
- Nattuvangam: Shri Praveen Kumar personally conducts the performance on stage.
- Orchestra Management: Curation and coordination of 'A' Grade musicians (Vocal, Mridangam, Flute/Violin).
- Green Room: Assistance with makeup artists and costume draping coordination.
Production Value
- Technical Direction: Lighting design direction to enhance Abhinaya and stage presence.
- Audio Assets: High-quality studio recorded tracks of the performance pieces provided for future use.
- Scripting: Guidance on event flow and scripts for the Master of Ceremonies.
About Bharatanatyam Training & Workshops
I see Bharatanatyam as more than just dance steps - it’s a way to express, to heal, and to connect. My teaching style tries to find that sweet spot between old-school discipline and the fresh vibe that today's dancers want. As I always say, "Late adhru latest agi bandhe" (Even if I'm late, I come with the latest).
The Learning Path
- I start from the basics, moving gradually towards advanced performance - you’ll get to learn both nritta (footwork, rhythm) and abhinaya (expression, storytelling).
- Everyone gets a shot on stage at our school events like 'Nruthya Sambrahma' and 'Nrutyollasa'. There’s nothing like the thrill of performing live, trust me.
- If you’re aiming for your Arangetram, I offer focused Bharatanatyam Arangetram coaching - it’s intense, but I’m with you all the way.
- Senior students can join the Chithkala Ensemble for group performances at a pro level.
Workshops & Special Training
- I run classical dance workshops in Bengaluru and sometimes outside, especially for those who already have some experience.
- Workshops are crash courses - you’ll learn a new piece or dive deep into technique, with music tracks to take home.
Music & Expression
- Dance isn’t separate from music. In my classes, you’ll get how Carnatic music in Bharatanatyam classes makes every step mean something extra.
- I help you listen, feel, and bring out your own flavour in every performance.
Every student is different. What matters is that spark you bring. Let's explore Bharatanatyam together, with honesty and heart.
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.
