Usha Suresh Balaje

🪔 About

Usha Suresh Balaje, originally known as K.T. Usha from Koothuparamba, Kerala, is an accomplished Indian classical dancer specializing in Mohiniyattam, with a strong foundation in Bharatanatyam and folk dance. She began her classical dance training at the age of five and performed her arangetram at eight. During the late 1970s and early 1980s, she was a prominent figure in the Kerala Yuvajanolsavam (Kerala School Kalolsavam) competitions, where she set a record by winning the folk dance category for six consecutive years. She also competed in Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, and light music, and was recognized as the youngest person to secure a seat in the university senate representing arts. Her early accolades include receiving the 'Kalathilakam' award twice as a student and a National scholarship for Mohiniyattam while in class six. She received initial training from Shyamala and later honed her skills under Kalamandalam Saraswathy and Kalamandalam Kshemavathy. Following her graduation, Usha took a significant sabbatical from performing after her marriage to renowned film producer Suresh Balaje, son of actor-producer K. Balaje, to focus on her family life in Chennai. She resumed her dance career approximately ten years prior to 2021, performing at various events. Since her comeback, she has been honored with awards such as the Naatya Druma Puraskar for Mohiniyattam by National Naatya Kousthubh Nrithyothsav and the National Excellence Award for Mohiniyattam by Parichay Foundation. Usha Suresh Balaje is known for her innovative approach, having performed a unique Vaaranamaayiram from Andaal Thirumozhi in Mohiniyattam. She has expressed intentions to transition into teaching once she has fully explored her performing career. Beyond dance, she is also involved in film production as a partner in 'Sujatha International', 'Sujatha Cine Arts', and 'Sithara Combines', and has launched a brand for bottle art called "Aesthetic Additions". Awards & Honours: Kalathilakam, Naatya Druma Puraskar for Mohiniyattam, National Excellence Award for Mohiniyattam.