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Classical dancer in traditional pose

Where Tradition Meets Grace

Experience the divine art of Indian classical dance through authentic parampara

About Guru

Rooted in tradition, guided by parampara

Guru Smt. Padmaja Raghavan

With 25+ years of dedicated practice in Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi, Guru Padmaja carries forward the sacred parampara of Indian classical dance.

Trained under the legendary Guru Kalanidhi Narayanan, she embodies the essence of bhava, rasa, and tala in every movement.

"Dance is devotion. Every step a prayer, every gesture a blessing."

500+

Students Trained

25+

Years Experience

100+

Performances

Classic Dancer performs at Attukal Bhagavathi Temple, Thiruvananthapuram
Indian Classical Dancer a woman dressed in a green and gold outfit

Dance Forms

Experience the divine art forms through authentic tradition

South Indian temple dance – Bharatanatyam performers

Bharatanatyam

The ancient temple dance of Tamil Nadu, embodying bhakti through precise movements and expressive storytelling.

  • • Classical foundation training
  • • Theory and practical sessions
  • • Traditional margam repertoire
Bharatanatyam performers in nature backdrop India

Kuchipudi

A vibrant dance-drama tradition from Andhra Pradesh, known for its fluid movements and dramatic expressions.

  • • Natya abhinaya focus
  • • Character portrayal techniques
  • • Tarangam specialization
A close up of a person walking on a red carpet

Mohiniyattam

The graceful dance of Kerala, characterized by swaying movements and lasya-oriented feminine expressions.

  • • Lasya technique mastery
  • • Kerala temple traditions
  • • Mythological narratives

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Regional Folk Dances

Indian Folk Dances

Celebrate India's cultural diversity through vibrant regional folk traditions and community celebrations.

  • • Bihu, Garba, Bhangra variations
  • • Festival-specific choreographies
  • • Community dance workshops

Classes

Traditional learning tailored for modern lifestyles

Ballet dancers in tutus perform on stage with spotlights

Offline Classes

Traditional guru-shishya parampara in our serene Thiruvananthapuram studio

Beginner Level

Foundation steps, basic mudras

Intermediate Level

Complex adavus, abhinaya techniques

Advanced Level

Complete margam, performance skills

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Online Classes

Live interactive sessions and recorded lessons for global students

Live Sessions

  • • Interactive Zoom classes
  • • Real-time corrections
  • • Personalized feedback

Recorded Library

  • • Practice anytime, anywhere
  • • Progress tracking system
  • • Quarterly assessments
Ballet dancers perform on a dimly lit stage

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

Choose your preferred learning path and start dancing today

Events

Celebrate tradition through mesmerizing performances

South Indian temple dance – Bharatanatyam performers

Stage Performances

Professional productions featuring our advanced students and Guru

  • • Annual arangetrams
  • • Festival celebrations
  • • Corporate showcases
Indian Classical Dancer . . .

Workshops

Intensive 3-day programs focusing on specific techniques

  • • Abhinaya workshops
  • • Theory sessions
  • • Guest artist masterclasses
Indian Classical Dancer . . .

Cultural Programs

Community events celebrating Indian heritage and traditions

  • • Navaratri special
  • • Guru Purnima
  • • International Yoga Day

Upcoming Events

Annual Day Performance

March 15, 2024 | Trivandrum Town Hall

Showcasing 50+ students from beginner to advanced levels

Mohiniyattam Workshop

April 20-22, 2024 | Online

Intensive workshop with senior disciple of Guru Padmaja

  • South Indian temple dance – Bharatanatyam performers
    "Guru Padmaja's dedication to preserving classical traditions while making them accessible is truly inspiring. My daughter has found her cultural roots through dance."

    Mrs. Lakshmi Nair

    Parent of 12-year-old student

  • Ballet dancers in white tutus perform on stage
    "The online classes have been a blessing for us in the US. We can now learn authentic Bharatanatyam from home while maintaining our connection to Indian culture."

    Arjun Patel

    Online student, Chicago

  • Ballet dancers perform on a dimly lit stage
    "From complete beginner to performing on stage - the transformation has been magical. Guru's patience and attention to detail are unmatched."

    Rohini Menon

    Adult beginner, 2 years

  • South Indian temple dance – Bharatanatyam performers
    "The discipline and values taught extend far beyond dance. My daughter's confidence and cultural awareness have grown tremendously."

    Dr. Ananya Sharma

    Parent & Pediatrician

  • Ballet dancers in white tutus perform on stage
    "The attention to preserving authentic techniques while adapting to modern learning needs is exceptional. Highly recommended!"

    Vikram Iyer

    Corporate Professional

  • Ballet dancers perform on a dimly lit stage
    "For 5 years, Natya Kala Academy has been our second home. The spiritual aspect of dance is taught alongside technique."

    Priya & Arjun

    Siblings, Advanced level

Contact

Begin your classical dance journey with authentic guidance

Classical dance Guru in traditional attire

Get Started Today

Visit Our Studio

123 Temple Street, Thiruvananthapuram

Call or WhatsApp

+91 98765 43210

Email Us

info@natyakalaacademy.in

Traditional dance Guru Classical dancer in traditional costume