Ambika Docherty

🪔 About

Ambika Docherty is a distinguished Indian classical dancer, teacher, and administrator, primarily known for her expertise in both Bharatanatyam and Odissi dance forms. She began her training at the age of seven under the tutelage of Dr. Chandrabhanu, a prominent figure in Indian classical arts in Australia. Docherty performed her arangetram in 1982 and subsequently became a full-time performer with Chandrabhanu's Bharatam Dance Company until 2001, distinguishing herself in numerous productions. She also served as the Associate Director of the company, playing a significant role in the organization of its productions. Her extensive training includes master classes in Nattuvangam with Guru Adyar K. Lakshman, and she has undertaken prolonged periods of study in India to deepen her understanding of both Bharatanatyam and Odissi. Docherty has showcased her versatility by accompanying Chandrabhanu's solo performances in Nattuvangam across Australia and internationally in England, Malaysia, and Singapore. Currently, Ambika Docherty serves as the Deputy Director of Chandrabhanu's Bharatalaya Academy in Melbourne, Australia, where she is also the main tutor for Odissi. Her teaching legacy is evident through her students, including Sakthi Ravitharan, who performed her Bharatanatyam arangetram under Docherty's guidance, and Devika Bilimoria, who trained in Bharatanatyam with her. She also tutored nine young graduates of the Chandrabhanu Bharatalaya Academy for the "Bharatam Reprise" project, which revisited iconic pieces of the Bharatam Dance Company. Beyond performing and teaching, Docherty is recognized for her skills as a stage manager, performance supervisor, and costume designer. Her contributions to the arts have been acknowledged with the Natyakala Choodamani Award and the Kala Ratnam Award, both presented by the Bharatalaya Academy. She holds a Bachelor of Performing Arts from Monash University. Awards & Honours: Natyakala Choodamani Award, Kala Ratnam Award.