Jaya Chandrasekhar

🪔 About

Jaya Chandrasekhar is a distinguished figure in Indian classical dance, primarily known for her profound contributions to Bharatanatyam as a performer, teacher, vocalist, nattuvanar, and co-choreographer. She received her Bharatanatyam training under Lalitha Sastri in New Delhi and also studied with Birju Maharaj at the Sangeet Bharati in Delhi. Jaya Chandrasekhar formed one of India's most celebrated Bharatanatyam dancing couples with her husband, the late C.V. Chandrasekhar, performing extensively throughout the 1970s and '80s, often alongside their daughters, Chitra and Manjari. Her artistic versatility extended to accompanying her husband as a vocalist and nattuvanar, and she was an integral part of their choreographic endeavors. Notably, she adapted her performances in Benares by incorporating Hindi and Bengali to enhance audience understanding and connection. Together with C.V. Chandrasekhar, she co-founded the dance institution Nrityashree (also referred to as Nithyashree), initially established in Baroda where they imparted training, and later in Chennai. Through Nrityashree, she has played a significant role in nurturing the next generation of Bharatanatyam dancers, including her own daughters. Her dedication to the art form has been recognized with prestigious accolades. Awards & Honours: NATYA KALA SADHAKA (2026), Shan & Jaya Chandrasekar Visiting Artist/Scholar (2015).