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Years of Experience
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Nala Najan, born Roberto Theodore Rivero on June 28, 1932, in Pennsylvania, U.S., was a prominent American figure in Indian classical dance, a performer, teacher, choreographer, researcher, author, and critic. His early exposure included violin, piano, and ballet, but Bharatanatyam became his life's passion. In 1947, he embarked on a journey to India to…
Journey Timeline
1932
Born Roberto Theodore Rivero — Born in Pennsylvania, U.S. on June 28.
1947
Arrived in India — Traveled to India to learn Bharatanatyam, arriving in Malabar (Kerala).
1948
Began Bharatanatyam training — Stayed with Mohan Khokar and Dandayudhapani Pillai in Madras and began learning Bharatanatyam from Guru Muthukumaran Pillai.
1949
Learned Kathak — Learned Kathak when Mohan Khokar was appointed head of the dance department at M.S. University in Baroda.
1954
New York Debut — Made his formal debut in New York City at the Kauffman Auditorium, performing with Gina Blau.
1955
Performed at Henry Street Playhouse
1962
Learned Seraikella Chhau — Traveled to Seraikella, India, to learn Seraikella Chhau.
1970s
Became a full-time critic — Began working as a full-time dance critic in New York.
2002
Passed away — Died on January 7, 2002, in a New York City hospital.
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Awards & Honors
- Arts India Award — Sruti Foundation
Media Coverage
- A new direction to dance
The Hindu
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