Where it all began….

Flashback to 2001, when a young girl took her first steps into the world of dance with some Bollywood flair. Fast forward a few months, and there she was, on stage in a glittering costume, dancing to the infectious beats of “Chaiyya Chaiyya” alongside other enthusiastic youngsters. The nerves were real that evening at the Townhall, but so was the excitement.

Despite diving into dance, my mom was still on the lookout for something more authentic. That’s when we stumbled upon a Bharatanatyam class, held in a neighboring car park of all places. This makeshift studio was where it all began – students clad in traditional attire, practicing diligently to the rhythmic beats guided by our beloved Uma teacher.

I was captivated by the intricate footwork, the expressive hand gestures, and the stories that unfolded with each movement. My first Guru, Uma Kallurayya, was a patient and wise mentor who introduced me to the rich world of Bharatanatyam.

As we all know, Bharatanatyam traces its roots back to the temples of South India. It’s more than just dance; it’s a beautiful amalgamation of emotions, music, rhythm, and storytelling.

Growing up in a Christian household, bridging the cultural gap was no easy feat. With the support of understanding Gurus, I found my place in the world of Bharatanatyam. What started as a hobby soon became an integral part of my identity. Dance became my language, the stage my sanctuary, and the learning journey endless.

With the encouragement of my parents and Guru Vidyashree Radhakrishna, I embarked on a significant milestone in my dance journey by presenting the first-ever Bible Margam in Mangalore in 2018. It was a labor of love, from scripting to choreography, and collaborating with talented artists nationwide made it a dream come true.

Looking back, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunities and the people who’ve shaped my journey. If you’re curious, you can catch snippets of my Bible Margam right here: