Abi Sankar

🪔 About

Abhirami Shankar is a distinguished Bharatanatyam dancer and a Carnatic vocalist, originating from a family deeply rooted in music. She has dedicated over 15 years to her training under the tutelage of 'Natyacharya' Guru Dr. Naresh Pillai, who is the Artistic Director and Founder of Kalalaya Nrithya Academy in Mumbai. Her artistic lineage is further enriched by her mother, Srimati Mala Shankar, a professional vocalist and guru based in Mumbai. Currently, Abhirami Shankar is an active performer, gracing stages in both India and the United States. She relocated to the U.S. in 2015 to pursue her master's degree and has since established her base in the Bay Area, California. While she maintains a professional career as a software developer at Microsoft, her profound passion for Indian classical arts ensures that she continues to practice and perform music and dance almost daily. Her performances have been showcased at various significant cultural events and venues. Notable appearances include the Naipunnya Festival at the Dattasai Temple in California, a Bharatanatyam Solo Program for Krishnageetham Performing Arts in California in March 2023, and a KrishnaJanmashtami celebration at the Saraswati Sabha, Fremont, Hindu Temple, California, in August 2023. She also performed at the Grand Temple Inauguration Celebration of the Radha Krishna Temple in the Bay Area in July 2022 and participated in the "Vishishta Bhushana" Festival by Bhushan Academy of Performing Arts in April 2021. Abhirami Shankar's talent and dedication have earned her recognition within the classical dance community. She was honored with the title "Natya Mayuri" by Citizens Welfare Karnataka in January 2021 and "Natya Kala Vipanchee" by SKS Cultural Foundation Chennai. Her journey and insights into dance have also been featured in media, including an interview on Episode 73 of GuruDakshina. Her repertoire encompasses traditional Bharatanatyam pieces such as "Shri Ganesha Charanam," "Ramar Kavuthuvam," "Krishna Nee Begane," and "Thillana," demonstrating her versatility and mastery of the form. She is committed to the service aspect of her art, often performing for charitable organizations without charge. Awards & Honours: Natya Mayuri (2021), Natya Kala Vipanchee.