Priyanka Rao

🪔 About

Priyanka J. Rao is an accomplished Bharatanatyam artist with over two decades of rigorous training in this profound Indian classical dance form. Her artistic philosophy is firmly anchored in the rich traditions of Bharatanatyam, yet she actively seeks to push its boundaries through interdisciplinary collaboration, aiming to broaden the expressive potential of the art. Priyanka honed her skills under the tutelage of revered mentors, Guru Karnataka Kalashri Matiji and Guru Sheera Chandrashekhar, both prominent figures in Bangalore, India's vibrant dance scene. Her commitment and talent have been acknowledged through significant accolades. Priyanka J. Rao was a recipient of the prestigious Bembala Scholarship in 2025, an initiative spearheaded by the Nritarutya Dance Company with the generous backing of MuSigma. This scholarship has been instrumental in supporting her artistic development, including the acquisition of a musical instrument and specialized training to deepen the sonic dimension of her evolving practice. Furthermore, she has been honored with scholarships for dance from both the central government of India and the esteemed Karnataka Sangeeth Academy, underscoring her national recognition and artistic merit. Priyanka's career is marked by numerous performances for various organizations across India, where she has consistently captivated audiences with her nuanced interpretations and technical prowess. Demonstrating her innovative spirit, she is currently immersed in the creation of her inaugural full-length solo work. This ambitious project seeks to seamlessly weave together sound, voice, and movement, offering a contemporary perspective while respecting the classical framework of Bharatanatyam. Beyond her profound engagement with dance, Priyanka J. Rao maintains a professional career as a practicing architect. Her multifaceted talents also extend to receiving training in Carnatic music and a personal practice of yoga, which likely inform her holistic approach to performance and artistic expression. Her artistic journey and current projects can be explored further on her Instagram profile, @pri.jrao. Awards & Honours: Bembala Scholarship (2025), Scholarship for dance, Scholarship for dance.