Arkadev Bhattacharya

🪔 About

Dr. Arkadev Bhattacharya, born on June 28, 1974, is a distinguished Indian classical dancer, choreographer, and guru specializing in Bharatanatyam. He made history in 1998 as the first male Bharatanatyam dancer to perform an Arangetram. His extensive training includes tutelage under eminent gurus such as Khagendra Nath Barman, a direct disciple of Rukmini Devi Arundale from Kalakshetra, Padmabhushan Guru V.P. and Shanta Dhananjayans, Padmashri Guru Leela Samson (for a short period), and Padmabhushan Guru Prof C.V. Chandrashekhar. Academically accomplished, Dr. Bhattacharya holds a First Class M.A. and a Doctorate in Bharatanatyam from Rabindra Bharati University in Kolkata, and is also UGC NET qualified. Throughout his career, Dr. Bhattacharya has been recognized as a Doordarshan graded artist and acknowledged by various cultural bodies including the Song and Drama Division, EZCC, State Music Academy, and CCRT. His performances have graced stages across India and internationally in countries such as Germany, London, Scotland, Malaysia, Bangladesh, and Canada. In 2006, he was invited by UNESCO for a cultural exchange event in Germany. He is actively associated with national and international organizations like Kalabharati Canada and Bharatiya Bhasha Parishad, and has served as a judge for dance shows such as DBD Zee Bangla and Balashree. In 1995, Dr. Bhattacharya founded the Niharika Centre for Performing Arts in Kolkata, an institution dedicated to promoting Bharatanatyam, which started with five students. He also heads the dance department in three other institutions. Through his academy and other associations, he has imparted training to over 20,000 aspiring dancers and has groomed nine soloists. His teaching methodology is noted for its scientific and precise approach, focusing on preparing students for solo performances and national scholarships.