Viji Prakash
Bharatanatyam Performer
49+
Years of Experience
3+
Students Taught
1
Followers
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Vijaya Lakshmi Prakash, popularly known as Viji Prakash, is a pioneering and revered Indian Bharatanatyam artist, teacher, choreographer, and cultural leader who has played a foundational role in establishing Indian classical dance in the United States since 1977. Born in India, she began her formal training in the Thanjavur style of Bharatanatyam at the…
Journey Timeline
Early age
Began studying Bharatanatyam — Started at age four.
1976
Began working in the USA
1977
Founded Shakti School of Bharata Natyam — Established in Los Angeles.
1981
Founded Shakti Dance Company
1980s-1990s
Extensive international touring and performances
1999
Began serving as Adjunct Assistant Professor at UCLA
2001
Received Best Guru Award — From the Music Academy in Chennai.
2008
Mentored apprentice Kasi Aysola — Through the Alliance for California Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Program.
2013
Received Kerala Sangeeta Nataka Academy Award
2014
Received Devdasi National Award
2015
Received Soorya Lifetime Achievement Award
2015
Concluded tenure as Adjunct Assistant Professor at UCLA
2025
Will mentor apprentice Raaga Mahesh — Through the Alliance for California Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Program.
Photo Gallery
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Video Library
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Signature Performances
Signature repertoire pieces will be showcased here.
Performance Map
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Awards & Honors
- 2001 · Best Guru Award — Music Academy in Chennai
- 2015 · Soorya Lifetime Achievement Award — Soorya Performing Arts
- 2014 · Devdasi National Award
- 2013 · Kerala Sangeeta Nataka Academy Award
- UCLA/Indonesia Arts Education Residency Fellowship — UCLA's Center for Intercultural Performance / U.S. Department of State
- 25th Apprenticeship Cohort Award — Alliance for California Traditional Arts (ACTA)
Media Coverage
- Roots intact
The Hindu
- Spirit that moves
The Hindu
Schools & Affiliations
Testimonials
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Upcoming Workshops
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