Sumathy S

🪔 About

Dr. A. Sumathi Sundar is a distinguished figure in the realm of Indian classical dance, particularly Bharatanatyam. She holds the esteemed position of Academic Head of Dance at Bridge Academy, an institution that operates in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu Music & Fine Arts University. Her profound expertise is demonstrated through a series of comprehensive Bharatanatyam workshops she conducts, which delve into various intricate aspects of the dance form. These workshops cover essential elements such as "Patham," focusing on conveying emotions and narratives; "Namaskaram or Thatti Kumbiduthal," which teaches the traditional salutation; "Dhruva Thala Jathis"; "Adavus in Thisra Gadhi"; and "Mallari." These educational sessions attract a wide audience, including both aspiring students and experienced teachers. Notably, a workshop on "Thevaram" saw the participation of over 50 teachers, highlighting her influence and the demand for her pedagogical approach. Bridge Academy, under her academic leadership, is dedicated to establishing standardized, high-quality education in Indian fine arts, offering a structured 8-grade system. This system is widely adopted by more than 2000 teachers globally, underscoring Dr. Sumathi Sundar's significant contribution to bridging the gap between traditional learning and formal certification in fine arts. Her work involves not only theoretical instruction but also practical choreography, as evidenced by her teaching complete song choreographies during workshops. Through her roles, Dr. Sumathi Sundar plays a pivotal part in nurturing the next generation of Bharatanatyam dancers and educators, ensuring the preservation and propagation of this classical art form.