Dr. A. Sumathi Sundar

🪔 About

Dr. A. Sumathi Sundar is a distinguished figure in the realm of Indian classical dance, particularly Bharatanatyam. She currently holds the esteemed position of Academic Head of the Dance Department at Bridge Academy College of Media & Fine Arts, located in Chennai, India. Her profound understanding and passion for Bharatanatyam are consistently reflected in her pedagogical approach and public presentations. Her extensive career in dance education includes a significant tenure as the Principal of Tamil Isai Kalluri (Tamil Isai Sangam) in Chennai, a role she held as of 2011. This leadership experience underscores her commitment to institutionalizing and promoting classical arts. At Bridge Academy, she is instrumental in shaping the curriculum and guiding students through various certificate, diploma, and degree programs in Indian Fine Arts. Her teaching methodology is designed to provide a professional and cognitive understanding, ensuring an immersive experience for students to internalize Bharatanatyam as a living language. Dr. Sumathi Sundar is an active proponent of the art form, regularly conducting workshops and lessons to disseminate her expertise. A notable example is the Bharatanatyam workshop she led on "Thevaram" in September 2023, which attracted over 50 participating teachers, demonstrating her influence and the respect she commands within the dance community. Furthermore, she has showcased the intricate aspects of Bharatanatyam through demonstration sessions with her disciples, focusing on elements such as Navarasa expressions, sculpture poses, and the traditional Kuravanji Natakam. Beyond her practical and teaching roles, Dr. A. Sumathi Sundar also contributes to the academic discourse surrounding Indian performing arts. She is a co-author of a scholarly paper exploring Yakshagana, a folk theater form from South India, affiliated with Tamil University - Tanjore. Her multifaceted engagement, encompassing academic leadership, extensive teaching, and scholarly contributions, firmly establishes her as a respected guru dedicated to the preservation and propagation of Bharatanatyam.