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Welcome to Navaranjitha

Navaranjitha Performing Arts Center (NRPAC), where we take pride in being an institute dedicated to teaching Indian classical dance, specifically Bharathanatyam, in a traditional and authentic manner. Our goal at NRPAC is to provide a nurturing environment where children can not only learn dance but also have a delightful experience alongside their academic pursuits.

Our primary objective is to impart the rich Indian culture and tradition through the art of Bharathanatyam. This beautiful dance form holds within it the essence of our heritage, and we are passionate about passing on this cultural legacy to the next generation.

At NRPAC, we focus on the Pandanallur style of Bharathanatyam, which places significant emphasis on geometric postures and movements. This style showcases the intricacies of precise footwork, graceful expressions, and the portrayal of emotions through well-defined poses.

We believe that by learning Bharathanatyam, students not only develop artistic skills but also gain discipline, confidence, and a deeper appreciation for their cultural roots. Our experienced instructors, led by our esteemed Guru, are committed to nurturing the talents of our students and guiding them toward becoming skilled and expressive dancers.

Join us at Navaranjitha Performing Arts Center, and let's embark on a beautiful journey of dance, art, and cultural exploration together. We look forward to sharing the joy of Bharathanatyam with you and your family.

Aduvus (Steps): Grasp the essential steps and movements that are the building blocks of Bharatanatyam dances.

Rhythm and Coordination: Develop a keen sense of rhythm (Talam) and learn how to harmonize your movements with it.

Gestures: Immerse yourself in the language of dance through the study of hand signs and movements.

Abhinaya (Expression): Begin your journey into the art of conveying emotions and narratives through dance.

Introductory Theory: Acquaint yourself with the theoretical aspects that underpin this ancient art form.

Beyond Bharatanatyam, we also offer classes in semi-classical and folk dance styles. These classes, which are available on a demand basis, are perfect for community events and festivals, providing you with a platform to showcase the vibrant traditions and cultures embodied in these dance forms.

Spatial Awareness:

• Body and Space Coordination: Gain a nuanced understanding of the interplay between your body and the surrounding space.

• Complex Sequences Coordination: Master the art of coordinating rhythmically and spatially intricate sequences, building strength through various dance techniques.

Personal Growth and Social Skills:

• Collaborative Learning: Learn the values of listening, responding, and respecting others' opinions while working harmoniously in a group.

• Creative and Cognitive Skills: Develop abilities in recognizing, recalling, and classifying dance routines, fostering a keen sense of identification and differentiation.

• Trust Building: Forge stronger bonds and build trust among peers as you dance, learn, and grow together.

Upon moving to the United States in 2000, Rashmi became a cultural ambassador, introducing the beauty of Bharatanatyam to a broader audience. She contributed to various dance schools, choreographed Bharatanatyam and fusion performances, and presented her art at schools, non-profit organizations, and community events across the tri-state area. Despite the demands of raising three children, Rashmi's unwavering passion for dance led her to establish Navaranjitha Performing Arts Center (NRPAC) in 2013.

NRPAC stands as a beacon of excellence in Bharatanatyam education, where Rashmi imparts her deep knowledge to over 100 students, ranging from young children to adults. Her school, known for its rigorous curriculum, not only nurtures students’ artistic abilities but also prepares them for formal Bharatanatyam certifications and examinations. With a focus on the Pandanallur style, Rashmi’s teachings emphasize discipline, grace, and the rich cultural heritage of India.

Many of Rashmi’s students have gone on to complete their Rangapravesha/Arangetram, a significant milestone in a Bharatanatyam dancer's journey, both in the United States and India. These performances are a testament to her students’ mastery under her guidance, as well as Rashmi’s ability to instill in them the confidence, precision, and emotional depth required for such an esteemed achievement.

Her classes are held in various locations including Franklin Park, Hillsborough, Montgomery, and Monroe Township, New Jersey, making her a cornerstone of Indian classical dance in the community. Under her tutelage, many students have flourished, achieving personal and artistic milestones.

With more than three decades of experience as both a performer and teacher, Guru Smt. Rashmi Sudheendra’s contributions to Bharatanatyam are profound. Her passion, combined with her ability to inspire and shape the next generation of dancers, cements her status as one of the finest Bharatanatyam teachers in the United States today.