V.P. Dhanajayan

🪔 About

V.P. Dhananjayan, born Vannadil Pudiyaveettil Dhananjayan on April 30, 1939, in Payyanur, Kannur District, Kerala, India, is a legendary figure in Indian classical dance, primarily renowned for his mastery of Bharatanatyam. He began his formal training at Kalakshetra, Chennai, joining on October 5, 1953, at the age of 13. Under the tutelage of Rukmini Devi Arundale and Kathakali Master Guru Chandu Panicker, he received a comprehensive education, graduating with a Postgraduate Diploma in Dance (Bharatanatyam and Kathakali) with distinction. He also holds a B.A. in Economics and Politics. Dhananjayan served as a leading male dancer at Kalakshetra from 1955 to 1967. In 1968, he co-founded Bharata Kalanjali in Chennai with his wife, Shanta Dhananjayan, an institution that has since become a premier academy for Indian classical dance and music. The Dhananjayans are celebrated for their pioneering approach to Bharatanatyam, incorporating innovative choreography while upholding traditional principles. Their teaching legacy extends globally, with numerous students establishing dance schools in various countries. Beyond Chennai, they established Bhaaskara, a residential gurukulam in Payyanur, Kerala, and have conducted annual summer gurukulam camps at Yogaville, Virginia, USA, since 1988. Dhananjayan is also a prolific writer, contributing articles on dance, social, and political issues. Awards & Honours: Padma Bhushan (2009), Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1994), Rashtriya Kalidas Samman (2020), Nritya Rathnakara (2009), Guru Sreshta Award (2009), Keraleeya Nritya Natya Puraskaram (2019), Kala-Sreshta (2001), Sangeeta Kala Acharya (2005), Natana Prakaasam (2008), Kala-Vipanchee (2007), Viswakala Bharati, Kalaimamani Award (1990), Kerala Sangeet Natak Academy Fellowship (1993), Nrityavillas Award (1989), Munshi Centenary Commemorative Award (1988).