Ashok Kumar A

🪔 About

Ashok Kumar is a distinguished Indian classical dance guru, choreographer, and the founder of Natyanjali School of Dance in Bengaluru, India. He established the academy in 1986, dedicating himself to imparting rigorous training in both the practical and theoretical aspects of Indian classical dance forms, primarily Bharatanatyam. Kumar is particularly renowned for his pioneering work in teaching Bharatanatyam to visually challenged students, developing an innovative "touch-and-feel" method. His journey with visually impaired dancers began around 1987, when he was invited to the Ramana Maharishi Academy for the Blind in Bangalore. Through his unique teaching approach, students learn by touching his hands and feet to understand mudras and stances. Under Guru Ashok Kumar's guidance, the Natyanjali troupe, comprising both sighted and visually challenged dancers, has achieved significant acclaim, performing over 500 shows worldwide. Their repertoire includes Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, and various folk dances, as well as unique ballet productions choreographed by Kumar. The troupe's performances have been commended internationally, including by former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. Many of his disciples have performed their Arangetram, with 12 becoming "B" grade artists of Bangalore Doordarshan, and eight receiving the CCRT Scholarship from the Government of India. Kumar also runs a dance school for sighted students in Bangalore, with approximately 75 students. His dedication extends beyond dance, as he has worked to make his visually challenged students financially independent through various self-employment avenues.