Natyanjali Academy of Dance was founded in 1997 by Smt. Chandrika Chandran in Johns Creek, GA. Training is provided in the traditional Vazhuvoor and Melattur styles, instilling an appreciation for dance in every student and a deeper understanding of Indian culture. The Academy believes that everyone can dance if they are taught with care and if personal attention is given to each student.
All classes are personally taught by Smt. Chandrika Chandran at two locations – Johns Creek and Alpharetta - for children 5 to 18 years. Adults showing commitment and dedication are also enrolled. Classes are offered in a personalized, small group setting so students can benefit from a more individualized instruction. Semi-private and private classes as well as Nattuvangam training is available for advanced students. Classes focus on developing graceful body movements as well as expressive emotions using the face. Cultural education is provided through slokas and stories from Hindu mythology.
In addition to regular classes, students are exposed to master workshops taught by eminent artists from the USA and India. Master artists have included Padmabushan Smt. Kamala L. Narayan, Smt. Hema Rajagopalan, Smt. Lalitha Srinivasan, Smt. Revathi Ramachandran, Smt. Anusha Narendrakumar, Sri. L. Narendrakumar and Dr. Seshadri Iyengar. More than thirty students from Natyanjali have given their debut solo performance (Arangetram) which is typically conducted after 7 to 10 years of comprehensive training.
The students are encouraged to stay involved in the community and perform in cultural events after attaining a certain level of proficiency. They have performed in many community events, fundraisers and multicultural festivals and engage in workshops as the need arises. They have been featured in many of Atlanta's prominent showcases notably “Saptapadi” and “Sivoham Sivoham” (for Hindu Temple of Atlanta), the annual “Festival of India” programs, “A Tribute to Adi Yogi” (for the ISHA foundation), “Nritya Kadambam” (for Shankara Nethralaya) and others. The Academy produced a major, full-length dance drama in 2010, titled “Mohana Krishna”, under the auspices of ASHA for Education, to raise funds for underprivileged children in India. More information about these events and other upcoming performances can be found in the News and Events section.
