I was initiated into the divine art of Bharatanatyam by my parents, who put me under the most wonderful teacher I can ever imagine, Guru Rajee - Aunty. From the age five to this day, dance has been an inseparable part of my life. I have been blessed to have such a guru, who treats all students like her own children. Besides dance, she has also taught us to be disciplined, punctual and has helped us become responsible young women. Every Nritya Geethanjali programme, under her guidance, has given us lessons on organization and management. Aunty has taught us to address a large gathering of people and how to behave as graceful individuals. She is a living encyclopedia, when it comes to dance and music !

Over the years, my interest towards dance has increased vastly. Going to dance class after a hectic day in college relaxes and re-energizes me. The entire institution, Nritya Geethanjali is like my extended family, as we have been together for so many years. I hope this continues for many more years to come.

I also learn Nattuvangam and music from the same Guru. She conducted a workshop on the folk dances of India, where we got a chance to delve into the rural dances of our motherland. I have had the opportunity of performing on many prestigious stages in Mumbai, like Chembur Fine Arts Society, Sri Shanmukhananda Fine Arts & Sangeetha Sabha, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Ravindra Natya Mandir, Vashi Tamil Sangham etc. Recently, I had the opportunity to assist Aunty at the Dance Workshop conducted in Navi Mumbai.

Today, dance is more than a hobby to me. It is a passion and a form of recreation, which gives me peace of mind and inner bliss.

hemalatakrishnan@gmail.com