As an extension of her devotion to the dance form, Poornima Ashok founded 'Nrityanjali' in 1989. A foundation aimed at promoting a better understanding of Indian Art and Culture, Nrityanjali is a platform where innovations in art are incorporated into performances.
Nrityanjali includes a Bharathanatyam school where students are trained in the details and intricacies of the dance form, in both practical and theoretical aspects. The school is built on a strong foundation of Bharathanatyam, particularly Kalakshetra tradition, at the same time being open to contemporary themes and ideas. The school has worked towards promoting young and talented artists, inculcating in them a sense of pride about the rich cultural heritage they have inherited. The students here are trained in three levels – junior, senior and proficient.
Poornima has helped many young talents bloom into graceful dancers at Nrityanjali. Many of them have performed their 'Arangetram' and are pursuing Bharathanatyam with sincerity and dedication.
In addition to the teaching, Nrityanjali has also been involved in the following activities:
- Annual Dance Workshops with renowned Gurus
- Annual Dance Festivals showcasing young talent and renowned artists
- Nattuvangam Workshops
- Special Dance Projects
Under the guidance of Poornima, the students have been part of variedly themed choreographies. Listed below are a few of them.
SAMMOHA [Fantasy]-a solo dance feature portraying different manifestations of love.
KRISHNAM VANDE JAGATGURUM- a group production on the life of Sri Krishna.
SRINGARA KRISHNA – a dance drama from Jaydeva's Ashtapadis.
ASHTANAYIKA – a multilingual production depicting the different types of heroines ('Nayikas').
BRAHMARPANA- a fusion dance comprising of 12 instruments, both classical & western. A rare piece choreographed highlighting the origin of Bharathanatyam.
ANDAL- - a solo dance feature, based on the commentaries of Purvacharyas by 'Sriramabharati'.
MADHURA BHAKTHI – a solo dance feature depicting Bhakthi in various manifestations.
JAI GANESH – a dance ballet for Doordarshan.
PREMA PRANA PRAHARA – a unique presentation of Bharata Natyam, Odissi & Mohini Attam
(Watch Video).
NEW PRODUCTION
A Ekaharya presentation Radharani - The story of Radha unfolded in 5 languages. She is the representative of Prakriti, the mysterious nature. She is Mahamaya, the great conspirator. She is Shakthi, the power. Radharani deals with the absolutely mundane to supramundane concept of woman in superbly convincing manner. she is Different, Independent, Dignified and one with her own superconscious self. In a Galaxy of luminous women it is noteworthy how Radha is fearless and dignified who has been written and lived according to her own script and idea of womanhood.
'I pay homage through dance to one such woman Radha whose life is a message for contemporary lives as well.'
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