Dedicated to teaching, practicing, and propagating Bharatanatyam and holistic arts.
Dr. Nandhini Ashok is a direct disciple of the world-renowned Guru Kalyana Sundaram of the historic Sri Raja Rajeshwari Bharatha Natya Kala Mandir (Mumbai) — one of India's most prestigious institutions of classical dance.
Under this rich lineage, she has imbibed the purest traditions of Bharatanatyam, developing an uncompromising commitment to the guru-shishya parampara. Her education in the arts is comprehensive and academic, holding a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Dance from Kumar Gandharva University, a Master of Arts (MA) in Fine Arts from Bharathidasan University, and a Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) from Chennai University.
This rare combination of pure classical lineage, rigorous academic credentials, and extensive teaching experience has established her as a premier educator and choreographer across Maharashtra. By integrating Bharatanatyam, Carnatic music, and Tanjore art, she offers students a holistic, spiritual, and aesthetic gateway to Indian cultural values.
Founder-Director
The three core pillars of Indian classical dance, seamlessly blended in Dr. Nandhini Ashok’s performance and pedagogical styles.
Pure, abstract dance characterized by rhythmic footwork (Tala), intricate adavu combinations, speed, and geometric body patterns. It is a mathematical expression of grace and space, devoid of any narrative meaning.
The expressive aspect of dance, blending pure rhythm with abhinaya (narrative mime). Through systematic hand gestures (Mudras) and subtle facial expressions (Rasas), poetic text and lyrics are translated into emotional experience.
The theatrical and dramatic dimension of classical dance. It brings multi-character narratives to life through group choreography, ballets, and dance dramas, combining story, dialogue, dance, and music in a sacred showcase.
A record of performances at prominent festivals, temples, and cultural platforms across India and globally.
PAZHAMANERI TEMPLE ( TRICHY-TAMILNADU)
MUMBAI FEST ( BANDRA- MUMBAI-MAHARASHTRA)
CHEDDA NAGAR MURUGAR TEMPLE (MUMBAI- MAHARASHTRA)
NATYANJALI FESTIVAL (MUMBAI-MAHARASHTRA)
INTERNATIONAL WOMENSDAY –SHANMUKANANDA HALL (MUMBAI-MAHARASHTRA)
NATYANJALI FESTIVAL –CHIDAMBARAM TEMPLE (TAMILNADU)
SAHITYA SANSKRUTI AND KALAMANDAL – VASHI (MUMBAI-MAHARASHTRA)
ISCKON TEMPLE –JUHU ( MUMBAI –MAHARASHTRA)
MOOKAMBIKA TEMPLE ( KOLLUR- KARNATAKA)
Dussehra performance at Mookambika Temple & Bhajana Samaj.
Performed at Mookambika Temple.
Navarathri performance at the Udipi temple and Mookambika, near Mangalore.
“Jeevan Mukthi” – A ballet on Adi Shankaracharya at The Chennai Dance & Music Festival.
“Iyarkai Jalangal” – A fusion dance for Chennai Sangamam Pongal festival.
Conducted a workshop for about 100 children from 10 leading Mumbai Schools introducing classical dance and other art forms
Awarded By the Rotary Club of Mumbai, Khar for the selfless humanitarian service rendered to the underprivileged in Society in 2010.
Introduced classical dance to the Unique Academy School in the Erode district of Tamil Nadu.
Judge at “Thaka Di Mi Ta” – A famous dance program on Jaya TV.
Interview for “Kaalai Vanakkam” – A television show on Jaya TV.
“Nachiketa” – A ballet for Aurobindo Ashram at Nehru Centre, Mumbai.
Performed at Satara Natraja Temple during Shivrathri in Maharashtra.
Performance at Sur Singar Sansad
Performed for the Australian High Commission
“Madurya Bhakti” – A ballet based on the life of Goddess Laxmi at the Chennai Music & Dance Festival
“Bhakti Bhavam” – A dance composed on Radha, Meera and Andal, the devotees of Krishna at The Chennai Music and Dance Festival.
Performed at Sur Singar Sansad, Mumbai
Composed "Krishna Leela" dance drama.
Key professional milestones, achievements, and contributions of Dr. Nandhini Ashok over the decades.