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Bharatanatyam Training & Studio Practice

byPreetha ArunClasses at Samarpana Dance Academy, WhitefieldStarts from1,000 one timeView full gallery

My studio is a space for tradition, discipline, and discovery. Here is how we build a strong foundation, step by step, at your own pace.

A quick practice session. It is always a pleasure to dance, especially when the person who usually shoots my videos is visiting.

My student Sannidhi explaining Adi Talam. Understanding the beat, or thalam, is crucial for a dancer. Students with a background in Carnatic music often have a natural advantage.

I was so glad to receive videos from my little students practicing these jathis. If these reels can motivate even a few to try new things, my purpose is served.

A lady who lives an hour away joined my class after seeing these videos. It is heartening to know these practice sessions are inspiring women to try something new.

In dance, the learning never stops. Even for me, practice is a constant and essential part of the journey.

Here I am practicing a jathi. Consistent practice is key to maintaining the precision and stamina that Bharatanatyam demands.

Learning the hand movements, or hasthas, for a lovely Naatadavu. The only way to learn is to do it the right way, from the right people.

Theory is an integral part of learning Bharatanatyam. It gives students a deeper understanding of the art form and is a welcome break after a tiring practice session.

Introducing young students to shlokas. We teach them the meaning and expressions, connecting the movements to the stories and culture behind them.

This is the Karthari Adavu, where 'karthari' means scissors in Tamil. It's a beautiful adavu that uses the kartharimukha hastha.

About The Learning Process: In the Studio

We do not believe in one-size-fits-all lessons. Whether you are revisiting the basics as an adult or a student starting your Arangetram journey, my process prioritizes your personal growth over speed. You will notice that my classes balance rigorous Kalakshetra-style Adavu practice with the supportive environment needed to master complex footwork and Hasthas.

In our studio, learning Bharatanatyam is a journey of precision and patience. We follow the traditional Kalakshetra syllabus, focusing heavily on the building blocks—the Adavus. You will see us working on everything from the basic Araimandi stance to complex sequences like the Karthari Adavu. But technique is only one part of the story.

We balance physical training with theoretical grounding. My students spend time understanding the significance of Shlokas, the logic behind Tala, and the meaning of Hasthas. Whether you are a child just starting your journey or an adult returning to dance after years away, my approach is to meet you where you are. I conduct regular individual assessments even within group classes, ensuring that every student receives the specific correction they need to progress safely and confidently.

For those who cannot make it to Ramagondanahalli, our live online sessions mirror this same rigor, using video feedback to keep the learning personal and effective. We do not just teach steps; we aim to build the discipline, stamina, and deep appreciation for the art that makes Bharatanatyam such a rewarding lifelong practice.

25 years of teaching Bharatanatyam experienceApproved by the tribe
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Preetha Arun

Classes at Samarpana Dance Academy, WhitefieldStarts from 1,000 one time

I am Preetha, and for me, teaching is about passing on the discipline I learned from the great Adyar K. Lakshman sir. I started my dance journey as a child and realized my calling in it after my MBA. My academy in Ramagondanahalli is where we keep that tradition alive, one Adavu at a time.