Takashi Ando

🪔 About

Takashi Ando was born in Fukuoka, Japan, and pursued his early education in Tokyo, where he studied mechanical engineering. Prior to his deep engagement with Indian classical dance, Ando dedicated over a decade to practicing Kendo, a Japanese martial art involving sword techniques. His initial encounter with Indian culture unfolded in his twenties, sparking a profound interest in Buddhist statues and philosophy, which subsequently led him to explore Indian traditions more extensively. In 2000, Ando relocated to Baden, Switzerland, for professional reasons. The following year, in 2001, he embarked on his formal training in Bharatanatyam, an ancient Indian classical dance form, by joining Vijaya Rao's Nateschwara Academy in Baden. Under the dedicated tutelage of his guru, Vijaya Rao, he has immersed himself in the art form. Ando has successfully completed his Ranga Pravesha, also known as Arangetram, which signifies his official stage debut after the completion of his foundational training in Bharatanatyam. He is recognized as one of the "Stars of Nateschwara," a testament to his commitment and artistic development within the academy. Reflecting on his dance studies at Nateschwara, Ando has expressed that "The atmosphere of the dance school, the strictly traditional and land-related way, often makes me feel as if I am in my homeland, and it is for me these moments of regeneration where I can forget about everyday troubles of life as an Asian in Europe. My dance teacher, Vijaya Rao is one of the few who can create such an atmosphere." His journey exemplifies a unique cultural synthesis, finding a sense of belonging and artistic renewal through the rich and traditional environment fostered by the Nateschwara Academy.