ESTABLISHING ABHINAYA VANI NRITYA NIKETAN

For seven enriching years, I wove the intricate threads of Kuchipudi into the vibrant tapestry of Muscat. Encouraged by fellow artistes, I discovered a community of kindred spirits. Upon returning to India, I found resonance at the Kirtana Institute, where I shared the melodic wisdom of the veena for four transformative years. In 2009, I embarked on a journey by establishing Abhinaya Vani Nritya Niketan. This school has celebrated 15 years of existence, and its vibrant shows continue to captivate audiences. My husband and I jointly founded a charitable trust, deeply influenced by my father’s belief that art transcends monetary symbols. Our trust is dedicated to supporting artistes and art forms that are fading away, ensuring they have a platform to showcase their talents. Driven by passion, I embarked on establishing a dance school. Initially, chaos reigned-there was no structure, no organisation. However, necessity spurred innovation. I grappled with financial management, student attendance, and batch organisation. Through trial and error, I gradually shaped an orderly system. Each problem that arose became an opportunity for improvement. I adopted the mindset: “Where we fall short, let’s incorporate it into our system.” This process led to a more refined dance school. In the world of ballet, costumes play a crucial role, and ensuring they fit perfectly is essential. As a dance school, I’ve learned to manage this intricate process. Alterations must be precise, and each student’s costume assignment requires careful attention. Over time, logistics fell into place, thanks to my children’s assistance. But beyond the practical aspects, my students hold a special place in my heart-they are like my own children. I spend more time with them than I do with my own kids. This close bond fosters a sense of unity and trust.