75+
Years of Experience
1
Followers
About
Vija Vētra, born on February 6, 1923, in Riga, Latvia, was a legendary dancer and choreographer renowned for her contributions to Indian classical dance. She passed away on April 11, 2026, at the age of 103. Her early dance training took place at the Vienna Academy of Music and Performing Arts and the Vienna Conservatory Ballet chapter, where she studied…
Journey Timeline
1923
Born in Riga, Latvia — February 6
1940s
Studied dance in Vienna — At the Vienna Academy of Music and Performing Arts and Vienna Conservatory Ballet chapter
1948
Immigrated to Australia
1951
Opened a dance studio in Sydney
1950s
Began focus on Indian dance — After being cast as an Indian princess in a musical
1960s
Studied Indian dance in India — Including Bharatanatyam with Guru Chokkalingam Pillai and Kathak
1966-1975
Appeared on Mister Rogers' Neighborhood
1967
Opened a dance studio in New York City
1970
Transferred dance studio to Westbeth, New York City
1990
Began annual visits to Latvia — To teach and perform
1999
Received the Order of the Three Stars — From the Latvian government
2004
Documentary "Vijaya" released
2007
Documentary "The World of Vija Vetra" released
2018
Received the Cabinet of Ministers prize — From the Latvian government
2023
Celebrated 100th birthday — Received Diploma of Achievement from the President of Latvia
2026
Died — April 11
Photo Gallery
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Video Library
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Signature Performances
Signature repertoire pieces will be showcased here.
Performance Map
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Awards & Honors
- 1999 · Order of the Three Stars — Latvian government
- 2018 · Cabinet of Ministers prize for distinguished contribution to the nation's development — Latvian government
- 2023 · Diploma of Achievement — President of Latvia
Media Coverage
- Vija Vetra Turns 100
The Village View
- Vija Vetra Dances Into 100
WESTVIEW NEWS
- Vija Vetra Still Dancing at 102
The Village View
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