Arthya
Modernizing Bharatanatyam for the Next Generation of Dancers
Arthya
Modernizing Bharatanatyam for the Next Generation of Dancers
Discover Arthya - Build Grace, Confidence & Creativity
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Arthya's Creative Pedagogy
At Arthya, we honor the timeless tradition of Bharatanatyam while embracing the needs of the modern day student and global contemporary stage. Rooted in the spiritual depth, narrative richness, and sculptural beauty, Arthya Dance School strives to modernize Bharatanatyam for the next generation of classical dancers.
Educational Artistry: What Sets Us Apart
- Traditional Foundation: Rigorous training in adavus, abhinaya, rhythm, and repertoire that preserves authenticity
- Modern Approach to Mythology: Innovative choreography, and meaningful cross-genre collaborations with music and mythology catering to broader audiences
- Creative Expression: Empowering students to use Bharatanatyam as a medium for storytelling including themes of identity, environment or equality
- Performance Pathways: From traditional Margams to contemporary stage shows, temple festivals, community fundraisers, street performances and digital platforms
Finding Purpose And Meaning Through Dance
About Ashwini, Artistic Founder
Ashwini Ratnam began her Bharatanatyam training at the age of six and completed her Arangetram under the guidance of Guru Smt. Mamatha Karanth, Director of Natyalahari, Bangalore. She now continues her artistic journey under the virtual guidance of Kalaimamani Madurai R. Muralidaran, a world-renowned choreographer and composer. She has performed in several of his productions including Sanga Tamil, Shakuntala, and Karigai.
Ashwini has performed extensively on prestigious stages and temples across the Bay Area, CA and Bangalore, India. Ashwini has also successfully completed her Junior and Senior Bharatanatyam exam conducted by the Karnataka State Board.
Today, she continues to pursue her artistic journey as a teacher in the Bay Area alongside her full-time career in Data and AI Technology.
Adavu Intensive: The 12-Month Foundation Course
- Warm up and Injury prevention Techniques
- Adavus - Covering 14 basic adavus in 3 speeds
- Learn Angashuddi (good posture) and Talashuddi for Nritta
- Learn Types of Bhedas - Eye, Head, Neck, Eyebrow Movements
- Types of Nadai (Walks) and Bhramari (Turns)
- Asamyuta Hastas, Samyuta and Devatha Hastas/Mudras
- Abhinaya: Navarasa (9 Core Emotions)
- Ashta Nayikas (8 Types of Heroines)
- Learn basics of Solukattu
- Understand Musicality - Shruti, Thaala, Laya
- Bite size choreography challenges
Dedicate 365 days to learn a new skill
- 1.25 hours a week
- Open to all adults, working professionals and young moms
- Open to first time dancers/ those who have had a long break
Class Schedule
Wednesday 5:30 - 6:45 PM
Wednesday 5:30 - 6:45 PM
Wednesday 5:30 - 6:45 PM
Adavu Intensive Adult Batch
Wednesday 7:00 - 8:15 PM
Wednesday 5:30 - 6:45 PM
Wednesday 5:30 - 6:45 PM
Adavu Intensive Adult Batch