Nirmala Adrian (Benedict)

🪔 About

Nirmala Adrian (Benedict), also known as Nirmala John nee Benedict, is an accomplished teacher, choreographer, and pioneer in the field of Bharatanatyam. She has carved a significant niche in Sri Lanka and earned international admiration for her excellence and perfection in the art form. Her journey in Bharatanatyam began with the award of a Post Diploma Certificate from Bharatakalanjali, which she received from the esteemed philosopher G.V. Iyer. In 1986, Nirmala founded the 'Nirmalanjali Academy of Bharathanatyam' in Colombo, Sri Lanka, with the vision of sharing her talents and passion for dance. The academy has since grown beyond its Silver Jubilee, boasting a track record of numerous 'arangetrams' (debut performances) and accomplishments. Nirmala has frequently performed with her students in various dance productions, including major works such as 'Navarasa Virunthu', 'Nithiya Sumangali', 'Sivakamiyin Sabatham', 'Paasathin Por', 'Doctor Faustus', 'Mathikkor Alaipu', 'Tholuvam Sollum Kathai', 'Vetrikkodi', 'Nadakkindrome', 'Thirukkudumbam', 'Sivasakthi', and 'Sri Rama Pattabishekam'. She and her students have also performed at prestigious events like the 21st Annual Festival of Classical Dances at the Nadaraja Temple in Chidambaram. Nirmala Adrian (Benedict) has represented Sri Lanka internationally, notably as the nominee of the State at the golden jubilee of the Diplomatic Relations between Norway and Sri Lanka, and at the 6th International Conference of Tamil Studies in Malaysia. Her artistic endeavors have been supported by her family, with her father composing lyrics for many of her dances and her late mother, a Manipuri Dancer, assisting with costume design. While her primary work and academy are based in Colombo, Sri Lanka, she is also noted as a performer based in Athens, Greece. Awards & Honours: Bunka Award of Japan, Natyapoorna of Bharatakalanjali, Chennai, Kalai Chudar, Natya Kala Jothi, Nadana Ilavarasi, Natya Kala Mani, Kalai Chelvi.