My Bharatanatyam Journey: Philosophy & Teaching
I never planned to be a teacher, but 25 years of guiding students has taught me one thing: dance is a conversation, not just a set of steps. Whether you are six or sixty, we find your pace together.
Sharing more about the items I started learning after joining Rhadha aunty for training in the Vazhuvoor style.
For my students, it is the thrill of performing. For me, it is the quiet responsibility of ensuring they feel supported and look confident.
Here I talk more about my learning years with my Guru, the legendary Adyar K. Lakshman Sir, and how my Arangetram went.
My view on the importance of 'Banis' or styles in Bharatanatyam. Ultimately, it is not about the style, but how well you dance that matters most.
I took these photos casually more than a year ago. Just thought of sharing them. The joy of dance can be found anywhere.
My dance journey continued with learning the Vazhuvoor style from Smt. Radha, sister of the famous Kumari Kamala. It was a very different, one on one experience.
My Guru, Shri Adyar Lakshman, expressing his view that students should never give up their art form, even after their Arangetram. His words continue to guide me.
Remember that all of us have great potential within us. Let’s unlock it one move at a time.
For them, it is two and a half hours of dance. For me, it is every class, correction, and conversation we have had until now.
As the year comes to a close, I thought I should share some old memories of my dance journey, starting with my training under Padma Shri Adyar K. Lakshman sir.
About From the Guru: My Journey & Philosophy
In my studio, we focus heavily on the foundation. When you start, we don't just jump into choreography. We spend time on 'Araimandi' (the half-sit posture) and basic 'Adavus' because that is the bedrock of your balance. It is rarely the glamorous part of dance, but it is the part that keeps your technique strong for years to come. Whether you are a beginner or returning to dance as an adult, I check your posture personally to ensure you are building strength, not just memorizing steps.
My approach to teaching is built on the discipline I learned from my Guru, Padma Shri Adyar K. Lakshman, combined with the reality that every student has a different lifestyle.
The Importance of Basics
I often tell students that the moment you think you have mastered a piece is the moment you should practice it with more attention to detail. We do not rush through the syllabus. My training method follows the Kalakshetra style basics, ensuring that from the first Shloka to the final Arangetram performance, your technique is sound.
A Space for Everyone
I work with children, teens, and working professionals. If you are an adult looking to reconnect with dance, we don't treat you like a child learner. We focus on conditioning exercises to help mature bodies adapt to the physical demands of Bharatanatyam. I understand the constraints of a busy schedule, so my instruction focuses on quality of practice over the number of hours spent in the studio.
Why Practice Matters
My Guru once told me that one should never give up on the art form, regardless of whether you are juggling a corporate job or academic exams. 'Enna innaikke vanduttiya?' (You came today itself?) is a phrase I heard often, and it stuck with me. It is not about the competition or the stage; it is about the quiet discipline of showing up for yourself. Whether you join my in-person classes in Ramagondanahalli, Whitefield, or choose our online sessions, my goal is to guide you to your own milestone, whether that is the Salangai Pooja or your debut performance.
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