Ashish Pillai

🪔 About

Dr. Ashish Pillai is a versatile Indian classical dancer, teacher, choreographer, and psychologist, primarily known for his expertise in Bharatanatyam and Kathak, with additional training in Mohiniattam. Born on January 18, 1987, in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, he commenced his Bharatanatyam training under his father at the tender age of six, culminating in his arangetram. His Kathak education began under Guru Dr. Ragini Makkhar at Nadyog, and he continues to refine his skills under the tutelage of Padmashri Guru Dr. Puru Dadheech and Guru Dr. Vibha Dadheech. Furthermore, he has delved into Natyashastra under Guru Kalamandalam Piyal Bhattacharya. Pillai is the founder and director of the Drupad Dance Academy, an institution dedicated to training students in Bharatanatyam and Kathak. He also imparts dance education at local schools. His career is marked by numerous national and international performances, with appearances in countries such as Nepal, Singapore, Thailand, and Hong Kong. He has been honored with the title "Dance King" by the ETV network. Beyond his artistic endeavors, Dr. Pillai holds a gold medal in MA (Psychology) from Devi Ahilya University, Indore, and practices as a Rehabilitation Psychologist registered with the Rehabilitation Council of India, Delhi. He contributes to various newspapers as a columnist and has published research papers in international journals, alongside authoring a book of poems titled “Blossoms.” He also serves as an examiner for the Practical Dance exams of Akhil Bharatiya Gandharv Mahavidyalay Mandal. Awards & Honours: Sanskruti Award (2009), State Youth Festival Winner (2008), State Youth Festival Winner (2009), State Youth Festival Winner (2010), Nritya Shiromani, Nritya Bhushan, Nritya Surbhi, National Meera Samman, Kala Gaurav, Gem Talent of India.