Ratna Papa
Bharatanatyam Performer • Teacher • Guru • Nattuvanar • Choreographer
76+
Years of Experience
1
Followers
About
Rathna Kumar, affectionately known as "Rathna Papa" during her childhood, is an internationally renowned Indian classical dancer, teacher, and choreographer. Born into a family of musicians and writers, she began her dance training at a very young age. She received her foundational training in Bharatanatyam under Guru K.J. Sarasa, who accepted her as her…
Journey Timeline
1975
Moved to Houston, USA
1975
Established Anjali Center for Performing Arts — First Indian dance school in Texas
1994
Established Samskriti Society for Indian Performing Arts
2002
Began teaching at Rice University — Served as Dance Instructor
2011
Received Sangeet Natak Akademi Award — For her contribution to Kuchipudi dance
2026
Completes 75 years in dance
Photo Gallery
Photos will appear here.
Video Library
Performance videos will appear here.
Signature Performances
Signature repertoire pieces will be showcased here.
Performance Map
A world map of performances will appear here as tours are recorded.
Awards & Honors
- 2011 · Sangeet Natak Akademi Award — Sangeet Natak Akademi
- National Endowment for the Arts Grants for Heritage & Preservation and Arts Learning — National Endowment for the Arts
- 'Rathna Kumar Day' Proclamation — City of Houston Mayor Annise Parker
Media Coverage
- In conversation with Rathna Kumar
The Narthaki Podcast
- Rathna Kumar | Infinitely Curious
WordPress.com
- GREAT CONTRIBUTION by Ratnapapa Kumar
Bharathanatyam and the worldwide web
Dance School
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Students
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Testimonials
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Upcoming Workshops
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