Rama Vaidyanathan

🪔 About

Rama Vaidyanathan, born on July 17, 1967, in Pune, Maharashtra, is a highly acclaimed Indian classical dancer and choreographer renowned for her mastery of Bharatanatyam. She grew up in Delhi and commenced her intensive Bharatanatyam training at the age of seven under the tutelage of the legendary Guru Yamini Krishnamurthy, performing her arangetram (debut solo) at the age of ten. She further refined her skills under Guru Saroja Vaidyanathan, her mother-in-law and the founder of Ganesa Natyalaya, after her marriage to C. V. Kamesh in 1986. Additionally, Vaidyanathan pursued training in Carnatic music under vidwans Ramamurthy and Mahalingam, which enriched her ability to interpret rhythmic and melodic nuances in her performances. Her distinctive style is characterized by emotional depth, clear-cut movements, intense abhinaya (expression), and imaginative choreography, all while remaining deeply rooted in the core principles of Bharatanatyam. She is celebrated for her innovative compositions that explore philosophical and contemporary themes, reinterpreting traditional repertoires with modern sensibilities. Notable works include "Mad and Divine" (2011) and "New Dimensions to the Maargam." With a performance career spanning over four decades, Rama Vaidyanathan has performed extensively at major dance venues and festivals across India and globally, earning critical acclaim for her unique choreographic thought process. She is recognized as a top-grade artist by Doordarshan and is listed in the 'outstanding category of artists' by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). Beyond her illustrious performance career, Vaidyanathan is a dedicated educator. She has been actively involved with Ganesa Natyalaya in New Delhi for over 35 years, where she now serves as its President and Director, having assumed the role following Saroja Vaidyanathan's passing in September 2023. She conducts numerous workshops and master classes both in India and internationally, inspiring and training a new generation of Bharatanatyam dancers known for their sound technique and creative abilities. Awards & Honours: Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2017), Nritya Kalanidhi (2020), Kalaimamani (2011), Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Award (Kalashree) (2013), Kumar Gandharv Puraskar (2015), Bharath Ratna (1999), Nadanamamani, Vani Kala Sudhakara, Nritya Choodamani (2017).