Dhananjayan V P

🪔 About

Vannadil Pudiyaveettil Dhananjayan, born on April 30, 1939, in Payyanur, Kannur District, Kerala, India, is a highly esteemed figure in Indian classical dance, renowned for his mastery in Bharatanatyam and Kathakali. Growing up in a culturally rich environment, he displayed an early flair for poetry in Malayalam. At the age of 13, in 1953, Dhananjayan joined Kalakshetra, Chennai, under the guidance of Guru T. K. Chandu Panicker. He underwent rigorous training under Rukmini Devi Arundale from 1955 to 1967, earning a Postgraduate Diploma in Dance with distinction in both Bharatanatyam and Kathakali. He also holds a B.A. in Economics and Political Science. During his tenure at Kalakshetra, Dhananjayan was a leading male dancer, notably portraying Sri Rama in the institution's Ramayana series. In 1968, alongside his wife Shanta Dhananjayan, also a distinguished Kalakshetra alumna, he co-founded Bharata Kalanjali in Chennai. This academy quickly rose to prominence as a premier institution for Bharatanatyam, dedicated to preserving and propagating the art form while embracing innovative choreographic approaches. The Dhananjayans are celebrated for their innovative choreography, blending traditional classicism with contemporary themes, and have produced numerous acclaimed dance productions and dramas. Their extensive career includes international tours and collaborations with renowned artists such as Pandit Ravi Shankar and Jacques D'Amboise. Beyond Bharata Kalanjali, Dhananjayan also established Bhaaskara, an arts academy in his birthplace of Payyanur, Kerala, and has been conducting annual summer gurukulam camps at the Satchidananda Ashram, Yogaville, Virginia, USA, since 1988, fostering Indian cultural values globally. His teaching philosophy emphasizes discipline, devotion, and dedication, influencing generations of dancers worldwide. Awards & Honours: Padma Bhushan (2009), Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1994), Kalaimamani Award (1990), Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Fellowship (1994), Nritya Choodamani (1983), UNESCO Medallion de Merit (1984), Nrityavillas Award (1989), Munshi Centenary Commemorative Award (1988), Live Magazine Achievement Award (Ohio State Academy Award) (1997), Plaque of Honour awarded by the Governor of Ohio State (1996), Kala-Sreshta (2001), Sangeeta Kala Acharya (2005), Honorary Doctorate from Vel's University (2009), Nritya Rathnakara, Cleveland Aradhana, USA (2009), GD Birla International recognition for outstanding contribution to Bhaarateeya (Indian) Art & culture (2010).