Experience the Joy of Indian Classical Dance
Unlock your potential with our expert instructors at Naatya Lahari Dance School.
About Naatyalahari
Our History
Founded in 2014, Naatyalahari has been providing top-quality dance instruction in its most traditional form for over a decade. Our experienced Guru and method of teaching ensure that students receive the best possible training.
Our method and our guru
- Naatyalahari is affiliated with SAMPADA and VWU for certification and diploma programs.
- Our holistic approach is inclusive of shlokas and music along with the traditional Bharatanatyam teaching.
- We offer a comprehensive Bharatanatyam training program for all age groups starting from 6.
- Classes start with a basic warm-up and adavus that condition the body, providing angashuddi and progressing to nritta and abhinaya.
- Students learn complex sequences, full dance pieces, and theoretical aspects.
Guru Smt. R. Santhanalakshmi Sriram,
Artistic Director and Mentor
Nattuvangakalaimani Smt. Santhanalakshmi is a seasoned Bharatanatyam dancer with over 19 years of experience. Hemalatha Murthy and Trained by renowned gurus like Thanjavur Nattuva aasaan Kalaimamani Sri. B. Herambanathan, Padma Vibhushan Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam Chinnamanur Dr. A.Chitra and Smt. Priya Murle. She has a strong foundation in both performance and choreography. Her educational background includes an Engineering Degree in Industrial Biotechnology, a Baccalaureate in Performing Arts, and a Master's in Bharatanatyam. She has performed extensively in India and the USA, and has been teaching Bharatanatyam in India and the US for over 15 years. She is currently pursuing her PhD in Bhartanatyam from Vedic Wellness University, Florida. She is also a faculty member at VWU for Diploma and Masters Degree program
CLASSES
Pravesha 1 (Beginners - No experience needed)
This class is perfect for those new to Bharatanatyam. We start with essential stretching and yoga to prepare your body. Araimandi( the half sitting position) is taught. You'll learn foundational Adavus (steps) with personalized guidance. We focus on developing proper posture and precision through various exercises. You'll master basic adavus such as Tattadavus, Nattadavus, Paraval Adavus etc. are introduced and mastered in three different speeds. We'll also introduce single-hand gestures theoret
Pravesha 2 (Experience with Araimandi and Hand Gestures Required)
This class is ideal for those with little experience. You will learn advanced adavus in 3 speeds and aim to work up the stamina to perform pieces such as Alarippu, Kauthuvams, Jathiswarams etc. Concepts of Samyutha Hasthas, Shiro Bhedas are introduced
Parichaya 1 (Intermediate)
These are classes where the students are made more proficient in all the adavus and speeds. They are introduced with invocatory pieces and work themselves up to intermediate pieces. The theoretical concepts of Drishti Bhedas, Greeva Bhedas, Uru Bhedas are introduced.
Parichaya 2 (Proficient Intermediate)
The concept of Abhinaya is introduced and the students are trained in short abhinaya pieces.
Utthama(Advanced)
They are proficient in nritta Nritya and Abhinaya and explore new and wider concepts. They gradually progress to the stage of Arangetram or their solo Debut performance and put their endurance and stamina to use.
Likitha(exam Preparation)
The kids from 8 years of age are trained to give University level examinations and gain academic credentials.