Prithvija Balagopalan

🪔 About

Prithvija Balagopalan is an accomplished Indian classical dancer, primarily recognized for her expertise in Bharatanatyam. Her training commenced at the age of five under the tutelage of her father, the esteemed Prof. C.K. Balagopalan, a prominent figure in Bharatanatyam and Kathakali associated with the Kalakshetra Foundation. Prithvija furthered her education by completing a five-year part-time Bharatanatyam course certified by the Kalakshetra Foundation. She also received three years of guidance from Prof. V.P. Dhananjayan and earned a first-class Diploma and Post Diploma from the Rukmini Devi College of Fine Arts, Kalakshetra Foundation. She continues to refine her art under Sri Sheejith Krishna at Sahrudaya Foundation. Throughout her career, Prithvija has graced numerous stages, both nationally and internationally. She has performed lead roles in several Kalakshetra dance-drama productions, including Sita in "Sita Swayamvaram," Rukmini in "Rukmini Kalyanam," and Akkamma in "Akkamahadevi." Her international performances include the 12th International Festival of Dance & Music in Bangkok and the Jeonju International Sori Festival in South Korea, where she performed in "Ritu Samhar," choreographed by the legendary Pandit Birju Maharaj in 2010. She has also performed in Singapore and was part of the Kalakshetra troupe's international tours between 2004 and 2008. Beyond performing, Prithvija is a dedicated teacher, conducting Bharatanatyam classes at IIT Madras Campus, GT Aloha Vidya Mandhir in Chennai, and her father's institution, Balanrithyalaya. She has also showcased her choreographic skills, notably with the dance "Karpagambal" in 2007. Her contributions to the art form have been recognized with awards such as the Best Dancer in the Spirit of Youth festival by the Music Academy, Chennai (2009-10), and the Young Talented Artiste Award from the South Zone Cultural Centre (2008-09). Awards & Honours: Best dancer in the Spirit of Youth festival of music and dance, Young Talented Artiste Award.