Anjani Arunkumar

🪔 About

Dr. Anjani Arunkumar is a distinguished figure in Indian classical dance, particularly Bharatanatyam, known for her innovative contributions and extensive teaching legacy. She received her foundational training in Bharatanatyam under Guru Anjali Meher, who was a direct disciple of the legendary Rukmini Devi Arundale of Kalakshetra. Further enriching her artistic foundation, Dr. Arunkumar undertook intensive training in Hindustani Vocal Classical Music from Guru Balkrishnabua Kapileshwari, a disciple of Ustad Abdul Karim Khan, the founder of the Kirana Gharana. She also delved into the intricacies of Nattuvangam, Bharatanatyam musical forms, and the Carnatic Tala System under the tutelage of Guru Nana Kasar. Academically, she holds an M.A. in Music from S.N.D.T. University and a Ph.D. from Bombay University for her thesis, "Aspect of dance in the 10th Skandha of the Bhagavata Purana," under the guidance of Prof. Suresh Upadhyaya. Inspired by her guru, Anjali Meher, Dr. Arunkumar pioneered a new format called 'Devangananritya' in 1968, integrating Hindustani musical forms into Bharatanatyam Margams. She is credited with introducing fractional rhythm cycles—Sudip-tala, Abhinav-tala, and Sripati-tala—to Bharatanatyam. Her notable choreographic works include "Pragata Bhaya Shyama Varnam," "RamaKrishna Sankeertanam," and "Daasi Pushpanjali." A significant highlight of her career was assisting the revered Smt. Rukmini Devi in her final production, 'Meera of Mewar,' in January 1984. In 1972, Dr. Anjani Arunkumar founded Aradhana Sangitalaya in Bombay, where she has been imparting knowledge of Bharatanatyam ever since, nurturing many prominent dancers. Her teaching legacy includes students like Guru Shumita Mahajan.