Bharatanatyam - Indian Classical Dance lessons for beginners to Advanced level

From 24 £ /h

From Complete Beginner to Confident Performer!

Have you always wanted to learn Bharatanatyam but felt it was too late to start?
Perhaps you've never danced before, feel hesitant about your flexibility, rhythm, or coordination, or simply don't know where to begin.
This course is designed specifically to guide students from the very first step, regardless of age or prior experience.
Under the my guidance, students learn Bharatanatyam and Bharatanrityam through a structured curriculum inspired by the teachings of Padma Vibhushan Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam and the timeless principles of the Natya Shastra.
Every concept is taught patiently and systematically, ensuring that students develop strong foundations while enjoying the learning process.
Whether your goal is personal enrichment, fitness, stage performance, examinations, or a deeper understanding of Indian culture, this course provides the guidance and support needed to progress with confidence.

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Why Learn Here?

Learn from the Ground Up
No prior dance experience is required.
Every movement, posture, rhythm pattern, and expression is broken down into simple, easy-to-follow steps. Questions are always welcome, and students are encouraged to learn at their own pace without fear of making mistakes.

Individual Attention Matters
Every student learns differently.
Classes focus on correcting posture, improving technique, building confidence, and ensuring that each student understands why they are performing a movement—not just how.

Beyond Dance Steps
Students don't simply memorize choreography.
They gradually develop an understanding of rhythm, expression, storytelling, stage presence, and the cultural roots of Bharatanatyam, creating a more meaningful connection with the art form.

A Structured Learning Path
Many students struggle because they learn random pieces without proper foundations.
This curriculum follows a progressive path that develops strength, coordination, technique, expression, and performance skills in a logical sequence.

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What You Will Learn?

BEGINNER LEVEL – Building a Strong Foundation

• Body conditioning(warm up exercises) and posture alignment
• Basic Adavus and movement techniques
• Introduction to Talam and rhythm
• Coordination and balance
• Asamyukta and Samyukta Hastas
• Sthanas & Hasta Karanas
• Bhedas - Angas (Shiro, Uro, Paarshva, Paada, Khati, Baahu Bhedas)
• Bhedas - Upangas (Udara, Uru, Jaanu, Jangha, Charanguli, Tala & Gulpha Bhedas)
• Movements for expressions - Mukhajas (Dhrishti, Akshiputa, Bru, Greeva & Adara)
• Introduction to Natya Sastra concepts

Outcome: Develop confidence, body awareness, rhythm, and strong fundamentals.

INTERMEDIATE LEVEL – Strengthening Technique

• Advanced Adavus and korvais
• Techniques to improve stamina
• Charis(Boochaari & Aakasha Charis) and Bhramari techniques
• Nritta Hastas
• Rhythm development and coordination
• Introduction to Abhinaya (Natyam)
• Simple choreographies for deeper understanding of Nrittam & Nrityam
• Sancharis(Story telling through bharatanatyam) & kalpana (creativity boosters)

Outcome: Move with greater precision, stamina, musicality, and expression.

ADVANCED LEVEL – Performance and Bharatanrityam Training

• Alarippu and Jathiswaram training
• Kouthvam(Ganesha, Murugar & Nataraja), Varnam, Tillana and advanced choreographies
• Shabdams & Padams
• Complete Margam repertoire
• Natya Sastra theory
• Bharatanrityam concepts and techniques
• Introduction to the 108 Karanas
• Performance preparation and Arangetram guidance

Outcome: Develop into a confident performer with a deeper understanding of the art!
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Perfect For
✅ Complete beginners
✅ Children and adults
✅ Students returning to dance after a break
✅ Bharatanatyam students seeking stronger fundamentals
✅ Dancers interested in Natya Shastra and Bharatanrityam
✅ Students preparing for performances, examinations, or Arangetram

A Personal Note
My goal is simple: To make Bharatanatyam accessible, enjoyable, and authentic for every sincere learner.

Whether you join with absolutely no dance background or with years of experience, you will be guided step by step in a supportive environment where questions are encouraged, progress is celebrated, and every student is given the opportunity to grow into a confident dancer.

Extra information

Student Benefits:
Online classes from anywhere in the world
Individual and group learning options
Flexible scheduling across time zones
Personal feedback and corrections
Course completion certificates

Location

Online from India

About Me

Namaskaram!

I am Kum. Naveena, a Bharatanatyam and Bharatanrityam practitioner, teacher, and lifelong student of Indian classical dance.

My dance journey began at a young age, and over the past two decades, Bharatanatyam has become much more than a performing art to me—it has been a path of discipline, self-discovery, creativity, and cultural connection. Today, I am grateful to share that journey with students from different age groups and backgrounds.

As a teacher, I believe that every student can learn to dance when guided with patience, clarity, and encouragement. Many beginners hesitate because they feel they are not flexible enough, don't have a sense of rhythm, or are starting too late. My classes are designed to remove those fears and help students build confidence one step at a time.

I focus on creating a supportive learning environment where questions are always welcome, corrections are constructive, and students feel comfortable progressing at their own pace. Whether your goal is to learn Bharatanatyam as a hobby, reconnect with your cultural roots, prepare for performances, or pursue dance more seriously, I strive to make the learning process structured, enjoyable, and meaningful.

Along with technique and choreography, I introduce students to the rich traditions, stories, and concepts that make Bharatanatyam one of India's most treasured classical art forms. My aim is not simply to teach dance movements, but to nurture well-rounded dancers who understand and appreciate the beauty behind what they perform.

I look forward to being a part of your dance journey.

Education

• Direct disciple of Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam and Shri Hemnath Shanmugam
• Over 20 years of dedicated training in Bharatanatyam and Bharatanrityam
• Completed Salangai Pooja at the age of 6
• Completed Bharatanrityam Arangetram at the age of 14
• Certified in Nritya Pravesika, Nritya Visarada, and Nritya Shaali
• Specialized training in the 108 Karanas of the Natya Shastra
• Recognized as "Dancer on Cyber Cloud" by the APAN International Conference (2019)

Academic Background
B.E. Computer Science Engineering at Madras Institute of Technology (MIT), Chennai

My academic background enables me to combine the depth of traditional dance training with organized, effective, and engaging teaching methods for today's learners.

Experience / Qualifications

Performance Experience

Performed in numerous productions presented by Nrithyodaya and Shri Shanmuganandha Dance School.
Presented performances in renowned Chennai auditoriums including:
o Narada Gana Sabha
o Music Academy
o Parthasarathy Swami Sabha
o Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan
o Krishna Gana Sabha
o and other prestigious cultural venues

Had the privilege of sharing the stage with distinguished artists including:
o Padma Vibhushan Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam
o Dr. Gayatri Kannan
o Ms. Mahati Kannan
o Ms. Vithya Arasu
o Actor Vineeth
o And several eminent dancers and musicians...

Teaching Experience
• Over 6 years of teaching experience
• Trained students across a wide range of age groups, from young children to adults
• Experience conducting both online and offline classes
• Guided students in examinations, performances, and stage presentations
• Specialized training available in Bharatanrityam and the 108 Karanas

Age

Children (7-12 years old)

Teenagers (13-17 years old)

Adults (18-64 years old)

Student level

Beginner

Intermediate

Advanced

Duration

30 minutes

The class is taught in

English

Hindi

Tamil

Skills

Dance

Bollywood dance

Reviews

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -04:00)

New York

Online via webcam

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

00-04

04-08

08-12

12-16

16-20

20-24

Bharatanatyam Tutorial for stage performance - Padma Subrahmanyam Choreography

49 £ /h

Namaste! 🙏

This is my Krishna Jayanti Special Bharatanatyam Workshop. 💙

In this course, I will be teaching the complete Bharatanatyam choreography for a beautiful Krishna bhajan, specially designed to be suitable for stage performances, traditional functions, and competitions.

✨ Learn the complete choreography
✨ Suitable for stage performances
✨ Perfect for Krishna Jayanti celebrations & competitions

🌸 Happy Janmashtami! 🌸

May little Krishna bless us all with His divine grace, love, and mercy on this blissful day. 💙🙏

Jai Shri Krishna! 🦚✨

Learn the 108 Karanas of Natyashastra – Bharatanrityam Training

17 £ /h

The 108 Karanas described in the Natyashastra represent one of the oldest and most sophisticated movement systems in the world. They form the foundation of Indian classical dance traditions and continue to inspire dancers, scholars, and choreographers today.

This course is designed for serious Bharatanatyam practitioners who wish to move beyond repertoire and explore the deeper movement vocabulary preserved through the Bharatanrityam tradition of Padma Vibhushan Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam.

Students will develop a practical and theoretical understanding of the Karanas, their constituent elements, and their application within the broader framework of the Natyashastra. The training emphasizes precision, coordination, body awareness, and the seamless integration of movement principles that enrich both performance and teaching.

Classes are conducted by Kum. Naveena Muthukrishnan, a direct disciple of Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam, with over 20 years of training in Bharatanatyam and Bharatanrityam.

What You Will Learn

• Bhedas and their role in movement articulation
• Nritta Hastas and their practical application
• Charis and movement pathways
• The 108 Karanas and their execution
• Movement transitions and coordination techniques
• Bharatanrityam movement principles
• Theoretical foundations from the Natyashastra
• Applications relevant to performance, teaching, and research

Suitable For

• Bharatanatyam dancers with 6+ years of training
• Dance teachers and choreographers
• Advanced students preparing for examinations, higher studies, or research
• Practitioners interested in Bharatanrityam and the Natyashastra tradition

5.0

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BELOW VERSION FRANÇAISE

● All levels ● All ages ● 100% personalized lessons
● One single objective: learning while having fun!

● Whether you are a beginner or already comfortable on the track, the lessons are adapted to your level, your pace, your desires and your objectives.

● Never danced before? No problem! 😊 Most of my students start with no experience. We progress gradually, in a relaxed and pressure-free atmosphere.

● Do you already dance salsa and want to take it further? We can work on technique, musicality, leading/following, turns, movement, body expression, or refine your style and confidence on the dance floor. 🎶

● During the first few lessons, we'll work together to establish your goals so that each session is truly personalized. Whether you want to discover salsa, learn the basics, perfect your technique, or simply feel more comfortable with the music, the content will evolve according to your desires.

● You can come alone, as a pair, as a couple, or in a small group. Do you want to learn a few steps for a party, prepare an activity or a flash mob for a birthday (or any event or celebration), dance with your partner, or prepare for your first wedding dance? We also adapt the classes to your specific needs. 💍🎉

● My approach is first and foremost playful, supportive, and accessible, while paying close attention to the details that make all the difference. My goal: to help you progress while giving you the joy and confidence to dance. ✨

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
ENGLSIH
💃 Want to learn how to dance to Latin rhythms? Personalized Cuban salsa lessons for all levels!

● Whether you are a complete beginner or already comfortable on the dance floor, my lessons are tailored to your level, pace, interests and goals.

● Never danced before? No problem! 😊 The majority of my students start with no previous experience. We progress step by step, in a relaxed and pressure-free atmosphere.

● Already dance salsa and want to take your skills further? We can also work on technique, musicality, leading, turns, footwork, body movement and styling, helping you refine your dancing and feel more confident on the dance floor. 🎶

● At the beginning, we discuss your goals together so that every lesson can be truly personalized. Whether you want to discover salsa, learn the basics, improve your skills, refine your technique or simply feel more comfortable dancing to music, the content evolves with you.

● You can come on your own, as a duo, as a couple or in a small group. Whether you want to learn a few steps for a night out, prepare a dance activity or flashmob for a birthday (children or adults), dance with your partner or prepare your first wedding dance, we adapt the lessons to your project. 💍🎉

● My approach is above all fun, friendly and accessible, while paying close attention to the little details that make a real difference. My goal is to help you improve while, above all, giving you the confidence and enjoyment to dance. ✨

FAQs
_____
● Do I need dance shoes? Not really, just wear comfortable shoes.
● What should I wear? I would recommend you wearing light and comfortable clothes.
● Solo or duet? You are welcome to come alone or with your (dance) partner.
● More questions? Don't hesitate to reach out!

Tiffany

5.0

(42)

Dear dancers, welcome!

Do you love dance and want to improve your technical and artistic skills? I am here to help you surpass yourself! ;) Professional dancer, choreographer and teacher, I am creative, empathic, dynamic, and versatile.

Holder of a Bachelor's degree in contemporary dance and creation of multidisciplinary performances from the Iceland University of the Arts, a Master 2 in Art Research & International Creation from the University of Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne, I am an artist member of the International Dance Council at UNESCO.
Since 2020, I have been engaged in academic research on medical and spiritual dance whose practice is called Transcendental Dance (Transcendental Embodiment).

My professional experience extends internationally where I had the opportunity to work alongside various renowned companies and to organize internships in France, Iceland, Sweden, Mexico, Czech Republic, Spain, Turkey and Asia. Also, I had the opportunity to dance for haute couture houses during Fashion Week in Paris.

I teach contemporary dance, technical floorwork (floor work), contact dance and classical dance. My classes focus on mindfulness, musicality, harmonization of energy flows, improvisation, muscle strengthening and coaching in choreographic composition for competitions, exams, galas, and weddings.

I remain at your disposal for any information.
See you soon,
Tiffany

Linda

5.0

(42)

Have you always wanted to learn to dance? Do you think you have two left feet? Come and dance in the comfort of your home! Learn with a bilingual (English-Spanish) teacher with 18 years of experience! With her own school, focusing on personalized arts instruction for 11 years.

We have personalized classes at home, at your home or virtual of:

- Salsa dance
- Bachata.
- Reggaeton.
- Meringue.
-Tango.
-Jazz.
- Contemporary dance.
- Ballet.
- Stretching and relaxation.
Among others...

All ages and levels, don't wait any longer!
* Class values are per person.

Dané

5.0

(42)

What was Mikhail Barishnikov, Rudolf Nureyev, Natalia Osipova, and all the other Russian dancers’ secret to success? The one thing they all have in common is their training in the Russian ballet method of Vaganova. This professional method has been developed over the decades to become the most effective method in the world. The grandeur of the legendary Russian Bolshoi and Marinskii theatres speak for themselves. For this reason, I have gone to Russia to study for my bachelors in this method at the University of Moscow, and together with my collective experience in teaching ballet, am waiting to train you to become the next ballet legend.

WHAT DO CLASSES LOOK LIKE? Each lesson is 1 hour 30 minutes, the sweet spot between length of attention span, physical endurance span, and building stamina. Ballet classes are structured according to the Russian ballet method of Vaganova, and body conditioning classes include professionally developed exercises specifically for dancers. I customize lessons to work on what my students most need, and therefore weak spots are attended to until they are wiped out. Lessons are conducted online in the convenience of your own home, saving both time and transport costs.

WILL YOU BENEFIT FROM THESE LESSONS? My lessons are for you if you any one of the following scenarios describes your situation:

1) YOU DO NOT ATTEND ANY OTHER BALLET CLASSES - classes include a full syllabus, examinations are optional, and you can therefore attend my online lessons as your only source of ballet.

2) YOU ALREADY ATTEND OTHER BALLET LESSONS - I also offer the option for you to take these classes as a supplementary addition to classes at your studio in order to boost your scores in exams and competitions, and improve your technique, strength, allegro, and stability in pirouettes, balance, and pointe. This gives you the chance of becoming the new class hero, and enjoy the freedom of dancing without worrying about stamina, faulty technique, low leg height, weak allegro, and gruesome posture.

3) YOU ARE A DANCER, BUT YOU DO NOT DO BALLET - my body conditioning classes are beneficial for dancers of all genres. It teaches complete control over the body, promoting stability, strength, leg height, good balance and stamina.

WHAT LEVELS DO I TEACH? I currently teach beginner, intermediate and semi-advanced levels (RAD levels would translate as all levels up to Advanced 1), for children from age 10+ and adults. Although I am qualified to teach higher levels, I currently do not have time to choreograph full classes at such high intensity and complication.

ABOUT DANÉ - I am an experienced ballet teacher who loves ballet, people and teaching. To make it more interesting, here is my experience starting now and going backward: Currently I am studying at the university of Moscow where I have been voted the best student of the institute by my lecturers, and have attained cum laude so far in all my subjects. I began studying for my bachelors in Moscow September 2020. I have 14 subjects including the Russian ballet method of Vaganova and several other dance styles, body conditioning for dancers, choreography, music and acting. Due to current events I study online from South Africa for now. In my free time I teach ballet and write scripts for productions, sometimes staging my choreography when time allows. Prior to this, I studied Russian for a year in Kazan, Russia (this is a requirement if you study choreography in Moscow). Before going to Russia I founded and directed my own ballet school in Johannesburg from 2017-2019, and staged 3 productions. During this time I trained with the Russian School of Ballet in South Africa, attained a distinction for my exam and took part in their production at the Roodepoort State Theatre. Before this I trained with the RAD with many distinctions up to Advanced 1, but changed to the Russian method just before taking my Advanced 2 exam (if you take classes with me you will understand why;)). Furthermore, I won countless gold, A+ and special awards in festivals, eisteddfods and competitions, several of them including my own choreography. I was part of a theatre group from 2016-2017, where I performed the lead role in the Roodepoort State Theatre. I have done ballet since 2003, and was schooled in an American syllabus from grade 1 to graduation.

Profesora

5.0

(42)

Do you want to create a choreography for a very important moment in your life? Count on me. Tell me your tastes, your preferences, what songs interest you, what event it is for, how much time you have, and a long etcetera. I am willing to create original choreography and put it together, both in face-to-face and online classes, as well as make the necessary musical adjustments to create the music and choreography. For more details you just have to contact me. The choreography will be unique and special, since I will put all my effort, dedication and creativity into it. I can't wait for you to ask me and for us to create something so unique for such a special day!

Victoria

5.0

(42)

Unlock your body's full potential with our "Ultimate Flexibility and Strength: Comprehensive Stretching and Muscle Conditioning Program." This expertly designed course offers a holistic approach to improving your flexibility, strengthening your back, and conditioning various muscle groups.

Led by an experienced mentor, each session is crafted to provide a blend of dynamic and static stretching exercises, tailored to target specific areas of your body. Whether you're an athlete looking to enhance performance, a desk worker needing to relieve tension, or someone simply seeking to improve overall fitness, this program is for you.

What you'll get:
- Techniques for effective stretching to prevent injury and enhance muscle recovery
- Methods to strengthen and stabilize your back, reducing pain and improving posture
- Strategies for developing flexibility in a systematic, progressive manner
- Exercises that condition and tone multiple muscle groups for a well-rounded fitness routine

Sessions can be simultaneously translated by manager.

See you!

Iulia

5.0

(42)

The classes I am offering are gentle, grounding, and intuitive. Whether you're looking to release tension, find balance, or simply take a pause from everyday life, you'll be guided with warmth, curiosity, and intention. Blending yoga, authentic movement, breathwork, and the soothing vibrations of sound healing, each practice becomes an invitation to reconnect with your body, quiet the mind, and move in a way that feels true to you.

Sneha

5.0

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Class Description:
Welcome to a journey into two beautiful South Indian classical art forms — Carnatic Vocal Music and Bharatanatyam! Children are welcome to choose either discipline based on their interest, or explore both.

Carnatic Vocal Music: Students will learn the foundations of this classical singing tradition, starting with sarali varisas, janta varisas, alankarams, and gradually progressing to geethams, varnams, and keerthanas. Lessons focus on voice culture, raga identification, tala (rhythm) awareness, and pronunciation of Sanskrit/Tamil/Telugu lyrics, building a strong foundation for confident, expressive singing.

Bharatanatyam: Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of this classical dance form, including adavus (basic steps), postures, hand gestures (mudras), facial expressions (abhinaya), and rhythm coordination. As they progress, they will learn small items such as alarippu, jatiswaram, and simple padams/keertanams, developing grace, discipline, and stage confidence.

Classes are tailored to each child's age and pace, with a nurturing approach that builds both technical skill and a genuine love for Indian classical arts. No prior experience is necessary — just enthusiasm to learn!

Chloe

5.0

(42)

RAD qualified dance teacher offering ballet coaching tailored to dancers of all ages and abilities whether a beginner or advanced looking to improve your technique and artistry. Offering both RAD exam training

Zeynep

5.0

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Merhaba! 🩰 10 yıldır bale yapıyor, 3 yıldır pointe eğitimi alıyorum. Bale benim için sadece bir sanat dalı değil; disiplin, zarafet ve doğru tekniğin birleşimi. Derslerimde doğru postür, turnout (dış rotasyon), esneklik, denge, koordinasyon, müzikalite, temel bale pozisyonları ve yaşa uygun teknik gelişime önem veriyorum. Öğrencilerimin hem güvenli bir şekilde ilerlemesini hem de baleyi severek öğrenmesini hedefliyorum. İster baleye yeni başlayın ister kendinizi geliştirmek isteyin, seviyenize uygun, sabırlı ve motive edici derslerle hedeflerinize birlikte ulaşabiliriz. Her öğrencinin potansiyeline inanıyor ve gelişimini yakından takip ediyorum. Birlikte keyifli ve verimli bir bale yolculuğuna çıkalım! ✨🩰

Daria

5.0

(42)

Online Ballet Classes for Children & Adults

Professional ballet lessons tailored to each student’s level and goals. Classes focus on ballet technique, posture, flexibility, coordination, musicality and body conditioning. I work with both beginners and students with previous ballet experience. Lessons are available for children from 3 years old and adults.

Classes can include:
• Ballet technique & Vaganova-based exercises
• Barre and center work
• Stretching & flexibility
• Foot and body strengthening
• Posture and coordination
• Preparation for performances, exams and auditions
• Preparation for ballet competitions
• Learning and working on classical ballet variations

If desired, classes can be specifically tailored to the student’s goals, including competition preparation, learning ballet variations, improving technique, or preparing for performances and auditions.

María

5.0

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Classical ballet classes adapted to the level and needs of each student, from beginners to advanced levels.

I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Performing Arts Education in Dance, specializing in Classical Dance, and I have professional experience as a dancer, choreographer, and teacher of classical ballet, modern, and contemporary dance.

In class, we will work progressively on ballet technique, posture/alignment, coordination, musicality, flexibility, and artistic expression, always in a welcoming environment tailored to every student. These classes are designed both for those looking to start ballet from scratch and for students who want to refine their technique and continue growing as dancers.

My goal is for every student to enjoy the learning process, build confidence, and make safe, steady progress.

If you are interested in modern dance classes, please let me know.

Online classes are also available. Thank you very much!

Cedrick

5.0

(42)

Dances for Dancers is the art of teaching dancers not merely how to move their bodies to the rhythm but how to breathe life into every step by understanding that each dance, whether it is the graceful flutter of the Cariñosa, the playful hop of the Tinikling, or the vibrant energy of modern Filipino street dance, carries within it the soul, history, struggles, joy, and identity of the Filipino people, making the dancer not just a performer but a living storyteller of culture.

Amily

5.0

(42)

What I offer:

RAD Syllabus (from Primary to Advanced 2, Male & Female syllabus)
Free Enchaînment & Technique
Ballet Foundations (non-syllabus)
Pointe Work / Variations / PBT / Specific Skills
Auditions and Competitions Coaching

My approach to teaching ballet is rooted in adaptability and inclusivity. I focus on creating a supportive environment where students feel encouraged to grow, regardless of their experience or background. I tailor each lesson to the individual, whether it’s reinforcing foundational technique, developing artistry, or enhancing strength and flexibility.

I incorporate elements from RAD syllabus classes, non-syllabus work, and Progressive Ballet Technique (PBT) to ensure well-rounded training. Each step is broken down analytically, helping students understand not only how but why movements are executed in a certain way.

Lessons typically range from 60 to 120 minutes varied from individuals. I teach students of all ages and levels – from absolute beginners to pre-professionals. My lessons are open to girls, boys, and adult learners. Whether the goal is recreational enjoyment or professional advancement, I adapt my teaching to support each student’s journey.

Ashmita

5.0

(42)

Hii everyone
I am trained Bharatanatyam dancer with years of experience in other forms of dance. I can take classes in Bollywood, semi classical and also Zumba.
Both personal and group classes can be arranged based on your preference.
I can also help choreograph events!!