Ramya Ravi

🪔 About

Ramya Ravi is a highly accomplished Bharatanatyam artist, choreographer, and teacher, boasting over three decades of immersive experience in the intricate Indian classical dance form. She is the visionary co-founder and artistic director of Kalakriti School of Dance, an esteemed institution with a significant presence in both Chicago and New Jersey, dedicated to nurturing the next generation of dancers. Her artistic journey commenced at the tender age of five, where she received her foundational training under the tutelage of Smt. Chandrakala Jaganathan. She subsequently refined her artistry and specialized in the revered Tanjore style under the guidance of Smt. Padma of Natyakala Saraswathi. Ramya Ravi marked a significant milestone in her career with her Arangetram in 1998, formally debuting as a Bharatanatyam performer. Throughout her illustrious career, Ramya Ravi has graced numerous stages, performing lead roles in critically acclaimed productions such as "Saptha Thandavam" and "Thri-Shakthi." Her profound dedication and exceptional talent have been recognized with prestigious titles, including "Nrithya Niranjani" and "Natya Chudaroli." Further solidifying her credentials, she holds a certification from the Government of Tamil Nadu, underscoring her mastery and commitment to preserving the authenticity of Bharatanatyam. Demonstrating an unwavering passion for continuous growth, Ramya Ravi actively pursues advanced training in both Nattuvangam, the rhythmic accompaniment for dance, and Kuchipudi, another prominent Indian classical dance style. As the artistic director of Kalakriti School of Dance, Ramya Ravi transcends the role of a mere instructor, serving as a profound mentor and a guiding visionary. She is celebrated for her innovative and original choreographies, which breathe new life into traditional narratives, and for her captivating storytelling abilities that resonate deeply with audiences. Under her leadership, Kalakriti's professional company actively performs, bridging cultural boundaries and presenting classical dance to diverse audiences by harmoniously blending time-honored traditions with contemporary innovation and profound cultural insights. Her significant contributions to the arts have garnered attention from various media outlets and platforms, including features in "See Chicago Dance," "Chicago Human Rhythm Project," and the "AIPDA Arts Festival." Her insights as a Bharatanatyam dancer and educator were also shared in an interview on S Cube TV in December 2020, further highlighting her influence in the classical dance community. Awards & Honours: Nrithya Niranjani, Natya Chudaroli.