Today we’d like to introduce you to Vanditha Mohan.
Hi Vanditha, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My dance journey commenced at the tender age of 5, fueled by an innate passion for the graceful art of Bharatanatyam. Guided by the esteemed mentorship of guru Smt Padmashree Chitra Visweswaran, I imbibed a teaching style that prioritized excellence and finesse. Achieving my Arangetram in 2007 became a pivotal moment, opening doors to prestigious performances at revered Sabhas and temples, earning me the title ‘Natya Illavarasi’ on one memorable occasion.
Continuing my journey, I delved deeper into the nuances of Bharatanatyam under the tutelage of guru Shivakumar and Smt Shailaja Shivakumar, meticulously exploring both theory and practical aspects. Soon, my proficiency led to invitations from prominent television channels, where I spearheaded and hosted nationally acclaimed Bharatanatyam shows like ‘Natyanajali’ and ‘Konjum Salangai’ on top Tamil channels that was aired in countries like India, Germany, UK, Dubai, and United States.
These transformative experiences propelled me towards a path filled with diverse opportunities. I thrived in learning, performing, teaching, and innovating within the realm of Bharatanatyam. Fast forward to the present, I proudly stand as the founder of ‘Nrithyarpanam Academy of Performing Arts,’ a distinguished institution dedicated to imparting high-quality Bharatanatyam education.
With the unwavering support of my family, particularly the inspirational guidance of my grandmother, and through relentless determination, I find myself today, steadfastly following the beat of my heart in this cherished pursuit.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The journey wasn’t easy by any means. Balancing my passion for dance with my pursuit of a bachelor’s in dental surgery posed significant challenges. Endless hours were demanded by my studies, while simultaneously, I committed myself to rigorous 3–4-hour dance rehearsals, often with back-to-back performances scheduled. The toughest part was maintaining equilibrium between my education and art. Every day was a relentless effort, sacrificing sleep and leisure, yet I hold no regrets. I cherished every moment of that dedication. Those sacrifices were the steppingstones that brought me to where I am today!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Our institution specializes in teaching the revered classical dance form of India, ‘Bharatanatyam,’ boasting a legacy spanning over a century. This art form is more than just dance; it cultivates discipline while enhancing coordination, memory, and focus. With over 25 years devoted to mastering this vast ocean of an art form, I strongly emphasize preserving its roots and ensuring unparalleled quality in my teaching approach.
I take immense pride in my teaching methodology, which yields remarkable results regardless of age. Many of my 6-7-year-old students grasp intricate concepts like Taalam and Sollu Kattu (vocal recitation), a rare feat at such a young age. Within a mere 2-3 years of learning, most of my students can choreograph complex dance sequences known as Jathi.
At Nrithyarpanam, we stand by our commitment to imparting Bharatanatyam with integrity, eschewing shortcuts. Our curriculum rigorously encompasses the foundational training in adavus (Bharatanatyam grammar) before delving into choreography. While performance holds significance, our primary focus remains on fostering a deep understanding of the art with unwavering quality.
Drawing from my own experience as a performer, I strongly advocate for exploring nuances in various classical and non-classical dance forms. Our extension program, ‘Talaash,’ within Nrithyarpanam, specializes in training adults in diverse genres such as semi-classical, folk, Kathak, contemporary, and more. This platform serves as an opportunity for working mothers and homemakers to break free from constraints and revel in the joy of dancing for their inner fulfillment.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Interestingly enough, there’s more to me than just dancing—I’m also a dentist. After finishing my bachelor’s degree, I ventured to the United States to pursue a master’s in healthcare management focusing on the non-clinical aspects. During the week, I’m dedicated to my profession, while weekends are devoted to pursuing my lifelong passion for dance.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://nrithyarpanam.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Nrithyarpanam/
Image Credits
Prasad Golkonda
