Shylaja Ramji

🪔 About

Shylaja Ramji is a pre-eminent dancer of classical Bharatanatyam and a senior disciple of renowned guru Sudharani Raghupathy. Her formal training in the art began at the age of seven under her guru at Shree Bharathalaya, a prominent dance school. She dedicated over three decades to the institution, actively participating in all Bharathalaya productions as a senior student. Beyond her extensive dance training, Shylaja Ramji holds an M. Phil in French, with her thesis focusing on 'Aesthetics of Indian Dance,' delving deeply into the concept of Rasa in Natyasastra. Her academic work was well-received, showcasing her intellectual engagement with the art form. Throughout her illustrious career, Shylaja Ramji has made significant contributions to the world of Bharatanatyam. She toured the USSR as an Indian delegate of the Government of India alongside her guru during the Festival of India, representing Indian classical dance on an international stage. She has delivered more than 200 solo performances and numerous lecture-demonstrations in various institutions, demonstrating her mastery and dedication to teaching. Shylaja Ramji has also ventured into choreography, creating original works such as 'Vasudeva Namosthuthe,' which depicts the Dayasathakam of Swami Vedantha Desikan, and 'Saptamathrika.' Further solidifying her legacy, Shylaja Ramji founded her own institution, Silambam, which operates as an alliance of Sree Bharathalaya in T. Nagar, Chennai. Through Silambam, she continues to impart her knowledge and passion for Bharatanatyam, contributing to the next generation of dancers. She believes in the enduring nature of traditional dance formats and emphasizes the importance of a thorough grounding in adavus before advancing to the margam. Awards & Honours: Iyal Isai Nataka Mandram Award, Bharata Kala Bhoosana (1997), Natya Kala Jyothi (2004), Vani Kala Sudhakara (2006).