Malavika Kumar

🪔 About

Malavika Kumar Walia is a distinguished Indian classical dancer, choreographer, teacher, and nattuvanar, primarily recognized for her profound contributions to Bharatanatyam. She is based in San Jose, USA, and holds a prominent position as a senior company dancer and choreographer with the acclaimed Abhinaya Dance Company of San Jose. This esteemed institution was founded by her mother and guru, Mythili Kumar, under whom Malavika received her initial and extensive training in Indian classical dance. Malavika Kumar Walia's performing career with the Abhinaya Dance Company commenced in 1992, where she has since been a pivotal performer in numerous productions. Her performances have graced stages both nationally and internationally, including tours across India and the U.S.A. A significant aspect of her artistry lies in nattuvangam, the intricate practice of conducting the live orchestra through cymbals and vocalized rhythms. She has served as a nattuvanar for the Abhinaya Dance Company since 2000, contributing to its Bay Area productions and touring performances. Her exceptional skill in this area was highlighted in a 2004 performance in Chennai, where a critic lauded her for her "precise, well-intoned nattuvangam" and declared her "the star of the show." As an educator, Malavika Kumar Walia is deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of dancers. She actively coaches students in preparation for their Arangetrams, the rigorous solo debut performances that mark a dancer's professional arrival. Furthermore, she has showcased her creative prowess by composing numerous jathis (rhythmic patterns) and choreographing a variety of items for both solo and group presentations. Her leadership in dance education was formally recognized in January 2020, when she was appointed as the Director of the newly established Junior Dance Company, an initiative under the umbrella of the Abhinaya Dance Company. In recognition of her artistic excellence, Malavika Kumar Walia was honored with the Lakshmi Viswanathan Award from Sri Krishna Gana Sabha in Chennai, India, for her solo performance during the 2014 season. While her primary focus is Bharatanatyam, her artistic repertoire also encompasses Kuchipudi and Odissi. Awards & Honours: Lakshmi Viswanathan Award (2014).