Chandra Devi

🪔 About

Chandra Devi is a dedicated Bharatanatyam dancer and teacher, who has established a significant presence in the Indian classical dance landscape in Germany. She is the founder and director of Natyadhara − Zentrum für indischen Tanz und Kultur, located in Munich. Her foundational training in Bharatanatyam was rooted in the classical Kalakshetra-style, under the esteemed guidance of Smt. Shyamala Surendran. Smt. Surendran, a renowned guru herself, is the founder of the Dharani School of Performing Arts in Kochi, Kerala, India, and is known for her comprehensive teaching of Bharatanatyam and Mohiniyattam, having been trained by Padma Bhushan awardees V.P. Dhananjayan, Shanta Dhananjayan, and Abhinaya Saraswathi Kalanidhi Narayanan. Chandra Devi further honed her expressive abilities through specialized instruction in abhinaya from Padmabhushan Kalanidhi Narayanan, a highly respected figure in the field. Natyadhara, which Chandra Devi founded in 2007, serves as a vital hub for Indian dance and culture in Munich, providing training for students ranging from beginners to experienced dancers. The institution also fosters a performing group known as "Natyananda," which showcases the art form. Throughout her career, Chandra Devi has performed extensively in both Germany and India, contributing to the dissemination and appreciation of Bharatanatyam internationally. Beyond her roles as a performer and teacher, she is also active as a choreographer, engaging in interdisciplinary collaborations with artists from various international backgrounds. Her work at Natyadhara and her performances underscore her commitment to preserving and promoting the rich traditions of Indian classical dance in a global context. While her online profiles indicate that detailed career milestones, awards, and a comprehensive list of students are yet to be publicly documented, her role as the head of a prominent Indian dance institution in Germany highlights her dedication to the art form.