Discover the Best Dance Classes and Studios in Albany, GA

• - 5/5

Kruti constantly challenges me to try my best. Every single day presents new opportunities for me to push myself and find out what I’m made of. It is easy to give up when your feet get numb or when your quads burn or when your fingers feel like they’re about to fall off but Kruti has taught us the power of perseverance. Sure, it hurts. But holding that position, striking even harder or executing a complex set of addavs is worth the pain when it comes together to create something beautiful. And dance is beautiful. Whether it’s hardcore Kalakshetra Bharatanatyam, contemporary Bollywood or some aesthetically innovative fusion of the two, the pieces that Dina Auntie and Shemoni Didi have put together and let us be a part of are breathtaking. Each time I spin or bend or strike, I can’t help but feel graceful and elegant and oh so powerful. My journey at Kruti has been humbling at times, but it’s taught me how working hard pays off- those moments we refuse to give up in are what define us. And the personal growth I’ve seen has definitely shaped me into the confident, hard-working person I am today. Kruti has also helped me foster a cultural identity. It is so easy to never grasp the value and richness of Indian culture but Kruti refuses to let its dancer lose their ways. Dance exposes us to some of the most vibrant aspects of our rich heritage- the enthralling religious stories, the Bollywood numbers, the gorgeous outfits and so much more. It’s also great having such great role models to look up to. When I was little, I looked forward to seeing my didis each and every week. They were all so confident, beautiful, talented, kind, funny and amazing. They knew who they were, and they set the best example. I wanted to be just like them. The chance I have now to volunteer and share my own love for the dance is wonderful. I love getting to work with so many sweet girls. It’s a challenge and a lot of responsibility, but I’m so grateful to have the opportunities Kruti gives me. I’m also grateful for my Kruti family. The sense of community we have is unshakable. We smile, laugh, cry, learn, improve and dance together, and we’re always here to support each other. I remember the group hug I got on my worst day at camp when I was so close to my breaking point- it was so warm and reassuring, and it made me feel so so so much better. We all fiercely believe in each other, and that truly is something special. Dina Auntie, Shemoni Didi and their kind, funny, inspirational life lessons are always there for us too. Joining Kruti is definitely one of the best decisions I (well my parents if you wanna get all technical) made. It’s made me a stronger, happier, healthier, more graceful, well-rounded and confident young lady, and it’s provided me with a multitude of avenues to express myself, to interact with the most remarkable dancers and be a part of something so much greater than myself. I don’t think I could recommend Kruti more. If you want to see your kids develop a passion for something beautiful, learn excellence as a habit, be proud to be an Indian-American, take their health and exercise seriously, have amazing role models to look up to, make lasting friendships and take pride in who they are- you don’t have to look much farther than Kruti Dance Academy.

• - 5/5

As a parent there are messages you formulate, try to embody, and strive impart in your child. You can live and speak your message all you want but at some point you realize that influencers outside your immediate nuclear circle that also embody those values are imperative. For those of us who don’t have support networks of family living nearby, we must find other channels to bring in and reinforce those positive messages that we so sincerely want our kids to see, hear, and experience. For us, Kruti fills that space. Dina Aunty and Shemoni Didi are strong, dedicated, accomplished, and sincere women at whom I can confidently point when I want to show my daughter what can be accomplished when one is brave enough to dream, believe, work hard, and follow through. At Kruti, Noi is learning invaluable life skills and qualities such as confidence, discipline, self-control, a positive image of her body and her physical and mental capabilities, and the courage to stand up in front of a crowd and express herself. There isn’t another organization that is able to reinforce all of these things so well plus provide the sense of family the way Kruti does. Noi has been at Kruti since she was just 1½ years old and we are looking forward to her continuing to grow as both dancer and as a well-rounded, confident person under the guidance of Dina Aunty, Shemoni Didi, and Ashima Didi.

• - 5/5

It's one of the largest Indian dance schools in GA, however even though I committed 8 years of my childhood to dancing, I lost the joy of dancing after being part of Kruti; I hope it's a better environment for students.

• - 5/5

Embarking on my dance journey at a mere age of four, I was unable to comprehend or even imagine the impact that Kruti Dance Academy would have on shaping my character. As I approach the end of my Kruti journey, I am grateful for the moments that Dina Auntie and Shemoni Didi spent making me a better dancer and raising me to be a leader with good morale values. With the constant support of Dina Auntie and Shemoni Didi, I was able to recognize that dance is more than striking your foot and extending your hand at the cue of a distinct beat. They have shown me how dance is an outlet from the outside world, where I can escape from the pressures of school, activities, and life. With the guidance of Dina Auntie, Kruti transformed in to a place where not only did I learn the technique of dances, but I developed several practical life-skills such as time management and personal responsibility that will allow me to prosper and succeed in future endeavors. Looking back at my time spent at the studio, Kruti has had an enormous influence on shaping who I am today. Through my journey, I have been able to come out of my shell and gain confidence while remaining disciplined and creating lifelong relationships. What differentiates Kruti from other dance academies is the creation of an inseparable community, or more specifically, the Kruti family. As you step through the Kruti doors, you are greeted by smiling faces and warm hugs that instantly make you feel like you are home. We work together as a team to ensure that all students feel like they belong, and we aspire to teach them not only how to dance, but to be proud of their heritage, to be confident in who they are, and most importantly, to be kind and generous to everyone who crosses their paths. It’s through moments like these that strangers in our dance class transform into our family who always have our back in overcoming any obstacle and who push us to be the best version of ourselves. While we may have our ups and downs, there is no other place that I would rather spend my weekends than dancing the hours away with my Kruti family

• - 5/5

Kruti has always been a constant in my life. From when I was a four-year-old entering the studio for the first time to now, I can confidently say that dance is one of the best parts of my life. While I never knew how far this journey would take me, I always knew that my fondest memories would come from Kruti. Not only have I met some of my closest friends here, but I have also learned qualities such as dedication, perseverance, and leadership. Volunteering and interacting with the other girls at Kruti has given me so much confidence, and my love for dance has only grown with every weekend I spend there. Being at Kruti has brought me so much closer to my culture and has developed a strong sense of community within me. I am so grateful to my parents and Dina Aunty and Shemoni Didi for bringing out the best in me and nurturing me from a small, clumsy girl into the confident dancer I am today. I can look back and say that the journey I have created with this studio will forever stay with me. I have become a girl I can be proud of, who will work hard and put 110% into whatever she does. Over the years Kruti has made me into a girl with so much passion and pride in this journey, and I cannot wait to see what my future has in store for me. After completing my arangetram, I can confidently say that Kruti has changed me for the better. The years I have spent here have formed me into the best version of myself and I know that the qualities I have learned in this studio will follow me far in life. The studio truly was my second home and it’s only after my arangetram that I realized how much of an impact Kruti had on me. Being there every weekend gave me something to do - a purpose to live up to and the joy I get from being able to relive my memories is something I will never take for granted.

• - 5/5

As the saying goes, A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. My Arangetram journey began when I was six years old and now, eleven years later, is coming to a slow stop. By now this journey of a thousand steps has been filled with God's blessings and my Guru's multi-faceted guidance. It has been an incredible experience for my family and me. It is an unforgettable experience, partly for what it has taught me about overcoming challenges and setting goals and partly for realizing the direction and support I receive from so many wonderful people in my life. The dream of completing my Arangetram is, however, one I would never have imagined being true. In the beginning, dance class was a weekly nuisance that I only attended to see my friends. But in the past couple of years, it has come to be a weekly intermission in which I can be completely be myself and truly let loose. I would not have the chance to complete this dream if it were not for the support of my Kruti sisters, Dina Aunty and Shemoni Didi’s continuous exchange of wisdom, and every nook and cranny of Kruti Dance Academy. The sense of solidarity my Kruti family and I have is inspirational. We have laughed, learned, struggled, and improved together. We have cherished our last minute practices together and have kindled special moments of accomplishments at our annual recitals. Aiding each other to overcoming obstacles and personal challenges for improvement has been the hallmark of Kruti sisters, and it has resulted in special bonds of friendship which I will cherish for the rest of my life. With the influence of a guru like Dina Aunty and a mentor like Shemoni Didi, the spiritual aspects of the Indian culture cannot bypass me. They constantly challenge and motivate me, instilling values of leadership, perseverance, hard-work and discipline which I may have no learned otherwise. They have supported me throughout my dance journey which has indirectly affected my personality and the person I am today. I can, from the bottom of my heart, say that the years I have spent dancing, volunteering, smiling, learning, and simply enjoying time at the studio have truly been a blur of love and passion which I will remember in my heart forever.

• - 5/5

Kruti is a word of many definitions, but its literal meaning is creation. For the past decade, Kruti Dance Academy has created and manifested a love and passion for Bharata Natyam in me. It has become a second home and a place where I could simultaneously find and lose myself. From learning my first prayer to entering arangetram class, my journey has been filled with perseverance, passion, and most definitely perspiration. To Dina Aunty and Shemoni Didi: You both have pushed me, supported me, and taught me the meaning of dedication and passion. You have allowed me countless opportunities to perform around the world and to showcase my passion for this art form. I am beyond thankful to have you both as my gurus. To my Kruti family and fellow 2018 Arangetram graduates: You have all inspired me to work harder every day and to become a better dancer than I was the day before. From early morning practices to late night rehearsals, you all have made my dance journey full of amazing and incredible memories. I am tremendously grateful for all the experiences we have had in this journey together so far and I can’t wait to see all of you graduate with me this summer. As my Arangetram approaches, I can’t help but reflect on the past ten years I have spent learning and mastering Bharata Natyam. My dance journey has taught me a plethora of lessons that I will carry with me on to my arangetram stage this summer, that I will bring with me in college, and that will continue to shape my future.

• - 5/5

Dance has been instilled in me since I was a little girl, from dancing to the infamous To you are my Soniya to performing in front of thousands at the annual Kruti Recitals, I have always being grooving to the music. When asked, what's the one thing most people associate you with, the answer has and is always dance. It wasn’t all that easy. Let’s rewind 10 years to the beginning.

• - 5/5

As I look back on these past 12 years I spent at Kruti, I can honestly say that dancing has allowed me to come out of my shell and be the person I am today. My time at Kruti began at the young age of 3. My first class with the academy ended with me claiming that I never wanted to go back, but little did my 3 year old self know that I would grow up never wanting to leave. Over the past few years, I have learned many new skills,traits, and lessons that I will take with me on my future endeavors. Many of these skills,traits,and lessons were introduced to me through volunteering at the academy. Volunteering allowed me to become even more connected to the art form and share my love for it with my classes. It has taught me so many wonderful things, but the most important lesson that has come from it, is to never give up. Over time, I began telling my students to never give up, but little did I know that I would soon live by those words. Overall, my time that I've spent volunteering at Kruti has really opened up my eyes to new opportunities and lessons that I would have never had the chance to learn otherwise. Dina auntie and Shemoni Didi have made volunteering a joyful and rewarding experience for everyone, and I can gladly say that I wouldn't give it up for the world.

• - 5/5

For our family, Kruti is not just a dance academy, It is the best version of Gurukul system of education where our children are developed and molded holistically! Kruti Dance Academy is playing the vital role of that small village needed to raise a child???? Thank you, Dina auntie & Shemoni!

• - 5/5

It’s crazy to think that I was only three years old when I first wore my ghungroos in the Kruti studio. As the years have progressed, being a Bharata Natyam dancer has become a fundamental part of my identity. Dance, however, was not always a passion of mine. Fast forward to the Shabdam class, where my passion for dance truly started to bloom. Watching the Arangetram Didis dance from the glass windows became my favorite pass time. Their graceful, yet firm movements mesmerized me, and it was in those moments that I realized I too wished to complete my Arangetram ceremony. From then on, Dina Aunty and Shemoni Didi's words about using their critique to better ourselves really started to make sense. I stopped feeling bad about the criticism I received and started pushing myself to become a better dancer. As the last couple of weeks before my Arangetram come to a close, the excitement I feel about fulfilling one of my long-time dreams is outweighing any stress I may be feeling about the process. Dina Aunty and Shemoni Didi, thank you for teaching me to push myself in all aspects of life. I hope to make you and the rest of the Kruti family proud this July.

• - 5/5

Kruti Dance Academy is woven into the fabric of Indian dance and culture in the Atlanta area. More than two decades ago, I took Bharat Natayam lessons there. Now, my daughter has been a part of the Kruti family for the past three years. This organization is more than a dance studio. It is a community that provides an incredible sense of dedication, art, and creativity. It instills confidence and passion in our youth, and is a place for people to come together and build lifelong networks. The level of organization and professionalism speak volumes to the truly spectacular annual recitals. I am blown away every year! We are proud to have been a part of the Kruti family, and are saddened that we have to leave it behind as we move to a different state. Thank you, Kruti Dance Academy, for keeping Indian dance and culture alive in the Atlanta area for more than two decades! We will miss you!

• - 5/5

We experienced our first Kruti recital this year & I only have rave reviews. Our 6-year-old daughter performed at Cobb Center in front of thousands of people. She came off the stage with such thrill & energy. I am thankful to Kruti for giving her this opportunity. The recital itself was one of the most organized events I have ever come across & very professionally run. Dina Aunty & Shemoni are both very dedicated, focused beings. They are very meticulous and plan every little detail. As a result, the show was a spectacular production, which in my opinion no one else can pull off so smoothly except for these two talented ladies. Kruti strikes the right balance – discipline but fun & creative at the same time. The studios are bright, the graphics are very modern and the volunteer instructors make it fun for the little ones to learn. I have no hesitation in recommending Kruti to anyone.

• - 5/5

I love the dedication, and the cultural environment in which classes are taught.. respect for art n teachers, and so much orderliness! Mrs Dina Seth and Shemoni are amazing at what they do

• - 5/5

I am a trained Bharatanatyam dancer and I was looking for for a place that would give me an outlet to enjoy my one true passion, dance. I joined Kruti Dance Academy about 7 years ago and it was the best decision I have ever taken. What I love about Kruti is how graceful and sophisticated each choreography is but more importantly the passion with which dance is taught. I am always so amazed at the precision and perfection with which everything is conducted at Kruti, be it the dance choreography, the studio which breathes pure joy, the helpful student corner that posts useful dance practice videos, or the annual dance recital that Kruti conducts. Dina Aunty and Shemoni are such great mentors that I envision my kids learning here, where the spirit of guru-shishya is still alive and thriving. As a working mom of one, with another on the way, I thought that maybe I would need to take a break, but no. I look forward to my Saturday lessons. Its like therapy for me.

• - 5/5

Learning at Kruti Dance Academy has taught me so much, especially the recent years of being in the arangetram class has been such a special experience. It has taught me to manage my time better and prioritize the important things. The more that there is to practice for dance along with other things like school work, the more carefully I have to craft my schedule to make the most of my day. It has also taught me that hard work pays off. The more I practice and work hard throughout the week, the more motivated and happy I feel during the actual class. All the hours of practice throughout the year leads to learning beautiful dances with my friends and performing it on a stage. Dance has become an outlet when everything else feels too stressful and overbearing. Kruti has also motivated me to want to do better in other aspects of my life. I know the lessons I learn from the teachers here will help me in other areas in the future, throughout my life. Kruti has given me a deeper appreciation for Indian culture and makes me feel more connected to my heritage as a person that is growing up away from India. Learning dance here has made me appreciate the art of dance a lot more than I did before I started learning Bharatanatyam. Dina Aunty, Shemoni Didi, and all the didis that taught me over the years are wonderful role models I look up to. They have taught me so many valuable things and I am extremely grateful to be learning from them as well as to be going to Kruti Dance Academy. Kruti has a great community of supportive, kind people that inspire me to become a better dancer and person every week. The more involved I am at Kruti, especially during recital season, the more amazed I am at the amount of work, organization and effort that goes into making the recital look as good as it does. I am always in awe of the beautiful choreography for the different dances, and seeing different classes’ dances transform into a recital worthy piece through their hard work and their teacher’s dedication to their class. And in general, all throughout the year, Kruti is a place of tremendous self growth as well as a place that nurtures students’ passion for dance. The time I have spent at Kruti has shown me the importance of commitment and community as well as giving me more confidence in myself. I can’t even imagine my life without going to Kruti for the past ten years, and I will always cherish the memories I have made at Kruti.

• - 5/5

I started Kruti when I was in the 3rd or 4th grade. Looking back, it has definitely been an amazing journey to watch my peers and myself grow to love and embrace the Indian dance form. At Kruti, a masterful piece of choreography takes dancers who are diligent and passionate about the art form, but more than that, it takes hard-working, creative teachers who love what they do. I've learned to appreciate dance more now that i'm in college, and I have my teachers to thank for that. I would definitely recommend Kruti to anyone who loves to dance or who hasn't the slightest idea on how to move to a beat but would like to learn!

• - 5/5

For as long as I can remember dancing has been a close companion of mine; from taking the dance floor during Nepali wedding receptions at the age of two to performing live on NBC for the annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade. Without fail dancing remains and outlet that I can depend on whenever I feel stressed or overwhelmed. However what truly sparked my connection to dance is when I enrolled in the rigorous Bharatanayam classes at Kruti eleven years ago, as a six-year-old eager to learn. I must admit although I was inconsistent in my practice for my first years as a student at Kruti, there came a point in my journey of Bharatanayam when I realized dance is my passion. From that point onwards, I danced and danced whenever I had the spare time, and found myself not only enjoying my practice sessions but developing a unique interest for choreography as well. Soon enough dance began to follow me everywhere I went. Three short years ago, I entered the intense and fast paced Arangetram class. I remember beaming as I embarked on what would be my first day as an Arangetram girl. This title is what all young Kruti girls aspire to attain; to become a “didi” that all the other students look up to. As naïve as I was at the time, little did I know what work and dedication was the involved in order to gain respect of being an Arangetram girl – and surely enough just making an appearance in the 8 AM class did not cut it. With the relentless encouragement of Dina Auntie and Shemoni Didi, I along with my close friends in the class developed into dancers with an eye for precision grace and presence. I am forever grateful for every time Dina Auntie or Shemoni Didi called me out for not sitting in Aramandi deep enough or letting my elbows drop, because without them, I would never have a learned that, especially in dance, there's always room for improvement. Now here I stand along with my dearest group of friends on the 2017 team as Arangetram girls, equipped with a thorough understanding of responsibility, discipline, perseverance, respect, and teamwork. Earning the so-called title of an Arangetram girl has provided me with these crucial life skills that will help me in my journey to perform my Arangetram, experience college, and enter the workforce in the future. Within a few short months will come my Arangetram, and I will know my success in reaching this point in my dance journey would not have been even been imaginable without my loving parents, Dina Auntie and Shemoni Didi, and most importantly, my tight circle of friends I am proud to call my Kruti Family. I am so thankful to know that dance, and life lessons I learned from Kruti, will never leave my side.

• - 5/5

Kruti Dance Academy is the best! My daughter completed her arangetram at the academy. I used to drive from Augusta, Georgia so that she could get the best dance and cultural experience.

• - 5/5

I have been attending Kruti Dance Academy since the young age of four. When I began my Kruti journey, I would have never thought that I would grow to be so passionate and dedicated to the art form I was learning and that I would learn so many valuable life lessons along the way. Kruti has taught me the meaning of dedication, passion, perseverance, confidence, and responsibility. Dance has truly taught me so much about my culture and I have fallen in love with Bharata Natyam. I have created many memories throughout my years at Kruti and I have met many people that I will always consider to be my sisters. These girls are always there for me and are always willing to help me become a better dancer. I have also learned a lot about myself with the help of the people surrounding me. Dina Auntie has instilled many lasting principles in me, but the most important principle that she taught me is to never give up. There might be many obstacles in my path, but I will never give up and I will always keep trying and work harder than I thought was possible to reach my goal; and in the end, I will come out stronger and better. This dedication and passion has come to me through Kruti, and without this determination I would not be able to attain my goal and perform my arangetram this summer. As summer rapidly approaches, I find myself constantly reminiscing about the many memories I have created at Kruti. I will always cherish these memories and will always look upon this time of my life with fondness.

• - 5/5

I started kruti when I was just 5 years old and I have learned so much throughout the whole journey. The coronavirus pandemic had a significant impact on my last few months at kruti and changed my role in the kruti family. Franky speaking, the beginning was a bit hard with trying to understand how everything will work out, when things will happen, and how we will do things because we were so accustomed to our old way of life. However, kruti has taught us all how to be flexible, smart, and quick with coming up with solutions to problems. We quickly began our classes again over zoom calls and with each zoom call we all got better at learning how to use the technology and how to communicate over zoom. I even continued to teach many of my Bollywood and Bharatantyam classes on the weekends over zoom which was another hurdle we all worked together to over come so that the students could continue to learn and finish their dances. The coronavirus pandemic could have been very mentally tiring and troublesome without activities but kruti helped the situation feel lighter and helped us stay connected. We even chose to stay connected together over the month of June through a very successful June summer series in which the arangetram class participated in every week.I also got the opportunity to help teach and choreograph for the Bollywood camps for each weekend in June as well as talk to some of the newer Arangetram girls about what it means to be in Arangetram class and how we never stop learning at kruti. Three years ago when I started arangetram class I was a very different person and now as I prepare to leave I have picked up on many valuable character traits such as the ability to take on responsibility and speaking to others. I will forever be grateful for my kruti journey.

• - 5/5

At age five, our parents enrolled my cousin, Maya, and I in Bharatanatyam dance classes at Kruti Dance Academy. Going to class was fun! We had nice Didis, an exciting song, and even special Kruti uniforms! Dina aunty was quick to embrace us, with open arms, into the world of dance and Indian culture. We instantaneously became friends with the other children in our class; little did we know these girls would become some of our lifelong best friends. As we grew older, the dances became harder, the information we had to learn became greater, and Maya and I became increasingly more worried of meeting Dina Aunty’s expectations. It was not until I reached the Varnam class and went on to become an Arangetram girl did I realize Dina Aunty’s critique and constructive criticism was only out of love, because she knew I was capable of more. Dina Aunty and Shemoni Didi saw my passion for Bharatanatyam in me before I even knew it existed. They saw a flower bud in me waiting to bloom and with their encouragement and guidance, I have been able to fully embrace and truly appreciate dancing. I can genuinely say Kruti has had an extraordinarily positive impact on my life. I now impatiently wait for each Saturday as I am excited to spend my weekends in the high-spirited environment at our academy. There is nothing like the feeling of warm hugs from your students, the early morning and late night practices with your best friends, and feeling of self improvement gained from hard work. Through volunteering I have learned leadership, self-confidence, and grace and the life long friends I have made at Kruti are like my sisters to me. We laugh together, we sweat together, and best of all, we improve together. As I prepare for my Arangetram this July, I can only be thankful for the decision my parents made to enroll me at Kruti. My Kruti family is my inspiration; along with my cherished gurus, Dina Aunty and Shemoni Didi are the reason I am the whole-hearted person I am today. It is truly because of Kruti that the vibrant flower in me was able to bloom and my love for dance was able to blossom. Thank you Kruti (Dina Aunty & Shemoni Didi) for helping me achieve my maximum potential and instilling a life-lasting passion in me.

• - 5/5

I completed my Arangetram with Kruti this March 2024 and it was a wonderful accomplishment. Dina auntie was incredibly supportive throughout my journey when I started dancing with the academy in 2013. Each year brought its own challenges and rewards as I continued to make my way towards an Arangetram. Being the first adult graduate of the academy, I feel proud and grateful for such an amazing experience. Thank you to family, friends, and Kruti for making this possible.

• - 5/5

The teachers are so passionate about teaching dance and will take anyone. Shemoni didi always bounces into class ready to teach and Dina Aunty is always looking to better each and every child. My time at Kruti was filled with positive experiences that I will always remember! -N

• - 5/5

I have a 5 year old boy in the Bollywood dance program and it is fantastic. They are taught with great discipline and are expected to perform well thought out and age appropriate choreographed dance moves in a team setting. The program helps instill listening skills, coordination, practice, hard work, and most important of all self confidence as they get to perform onstage in Spring at Cobb Galleria in front of hundreds of people. If you want your kid involved in great activity this is one of best around.

• - 5/5

For 9 years, I have been able to proudly call myself a student at Kruti Dance Academy. Kruti has made dance one of the most important and enjoyable aspects of my life, and I cannot imagine my life without it. Consistently being greeted by the warm, welcoming environment at Kruti is an indescribable feeling that I have never felt anywhere else. I can proudly call Kruti Dance Academy my second home and that will never change. My affection for Kruti is simply unfathomable as it has truly transformed my life and engraved a place in my heart. Kruti has not only taught me exceptional dance skills, but has taught me life lessons that will never be forgotten. Being able to return to Kruti annually and perform after the curtains rise is a privilege I am extremely thankful to have. Every year, I am sure to come back to Kruti because of its outstanding atmosphere and the happiness it brings to me.

• - 5/5

We've been a part of Kruti Dance Academy for 3 years now and each year gets better and better. Both of our daughters love the academy. It's so much more than a dance class! Kruti is a community, teaching our children that through patience and dedicated hard work, all things are possible. I've enjoyed seeing them both bond with their didis (big sisters and teachers) year after year. It truly is a special place!

• - 5/5

“There are shortcuts to happiness, and dancing is one of them.” – Vicki Baum. Over the past 11 years that I have danced at Kruti, this quote has spoken the truth. From the invigorating Saturday mornings spent perfecting new choreography to the endless practicing done at home to master it, there is almost never a day I go without thinking of dance. This summer, I have the utmost privilege of performing my Arangetram to showcase everything I have learned thus far in Bharata Natyam. The preparations, planning, and practicing had at times worn me out, but the ultimate goal at the end always kept me pushing for my special day to get here. The Arangetram experience is nothing like what I have gone through before. I’ve made many special bonds at Kruti— with my guru, my students, and especially with my fellow Arangetram girls. We connect over the most far-fetched things, and laugh at almost everything. These girls are like sisters to me, and I am thankful for the memorable moments we’ve created together—I won’t forget them.

• - 5/5

We have been associated with Kruti for 9+ years. Over the years, Kruti has nurtured many students that have excelled both in Dance as well as in their Academic School and Life Endeavors. I have seen our kid excel in Dance Competitions and Performances (in front of huge audiences), as well as learnt valuable life skills and Discipline that has helped her in day to day stuff. We would highly recommend Kruti. Its not just a dance institute, but a university in itself.

• - 5/5

Kruti has been my home away from home for 4 years now. I have made some incredible friends and memories here and I can not wait to continue making more. Kruti has transformed my dancing experience and made me 10 times the better dancer. Definitely worth the 5 stars I just gave it.

• - 5/5

Chinese philosopher and poet Lao Tzu once said, A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. The journey of my sister and I, however, began with mumbled prayers and sloppily executed Ta Ki Ta's. August of 2003 was the beginning of our Bharata Natyam dance journey at Kruti Dance Academy. At first, our parents enrolled us at Kruti to keep us in touch with our rich Indian culture; they never imagined the passion and love we would grow to have for this ancient art form. Admittedly, the first few years were a struggle. It was near impossible for our mom to even get us in the car on Wednesday evenings. There was screaming, crying, kicking, and yelling, mostly on my part. As we matured, our feelings toward dance changed completely. The one activity our parents used to force us to be in became our release, a way to express fully anything and everything we were feeling. We progressed through the years, learning increasingly complex dances, different kinds of head, neck, and eye movements, and intricate addavas. In the midst of all of this, a fire had sparked in us. Our passion for dance began to grow and continues to do so with every moment we spend dancing. This change deep in us happened as we began to spend more time at Kruti. We volunteered for several hours a week, meaning we grew closer to not only other students, but also Dina Auntie and Shemoni Didi. We merged seamlessly into the Kruti family. Other students became our siblings, and we formed relationships with them that will last a lifetime, if not two. Shemoni Didi became our older sister who gave the best advice about everything and pushed us to do even better than our best. Dina Auntie is now our second mom. Her constant pushing through the years molded us into the dancers and people we are today. Under her guidance, we not only learned how to dance, but also countless life lessons applicable to all situations. By her example, we learned how to be graceful, poised young women with great strength. She instilled in us the traits determination, dedication, and a drive to accomplish, just as she has done with every student who has walked through the doors of Kruti. July 11, 2015 will be the end of one journey, and the start of another. On that day, we will complete our Bharata Natyam Arangetram. Twelve years of blood, sweat, and tears will be presented on that stage, as we make our debut as Bharata Natyam dancers. An Arangetram, one of the pinnacle moments of a Bharata Natyam dancer's life, is similar to a high school or college graduation. An Arangetram does not mean one is done with dance, but it the beginning of a new chapter in life with a greater love, understanding, and appreciation for dance. This journey has been filled with struggle, but the one day we've been dreaming of for years will be even more amazing because of it. -Robin and Nicole Jacob

• - 5/5

Kruti dance is a wonderful place to enjoy and have fun especially if you are an adult. Shemoni Didi is awesome! I will definitely take her adult Bollywood class again. Thank you!

• - 5/5

Ever since the tender age of 3 years old, I have been a proud student at Kruti dance Academy. For the past 12 years Kruti has been a place I not only dance at, but also a place I call home.  Under the guidance of Dina Aunty and Shemoni didi, I have not only grown as a dancer but as a person as well. The values, life skills, and memories are something I will always remember and take with me for the rest of my life. Being a person who loves to take part in leadership roles, organizing, and learning more, Kruti has been the perfect place for my talents to strengthen. Practices are always full of fun as well as the beautiful culture of classical dance. It has been such an enriching experience being part of this wonderful family and is something I will cherish for the rest of my life.

• - 5/5

Ever since I can remember, dance has always been a constant in my life. A source of comfort and expression. When I walked into my first dance class, I had no idea that what started as a hobby would become a lifelong passion. Going into the arangetram class, I was quickly introduced to the positive, welcoming environment that Dina aunty and Shemoni Didi had created. Learning Bharatanatyam has taught me discipline, dedication, and the value of hard work in all areas of my life. Learning this art form has also given me a greater appreciation for my culture. Being at Kruti has given me a wonderful sense of community. I am surrounded by talented, passionate people who have been an integral part of my life, and have become my lifelong friends. As I prepare for my arangetram this summer, I can’t reminisce upon all the memories we have created, laughing at inside jokes between classes, dancing, and teaching every weekend. Achieving this dream would not have been possible without the constant support of my parents and my entire family. Thank you Dina aunty and Shemoni Didi for always pushing me to do my best, and for always believing in me. My journey at Kruti has transformed me into the person that I am, and I will be forever grateful for that.

• - 5/5

My Kruti experience has been nothing but phenomenal and life-changing. Not only have I learned the beautiful art form of Bharata Natyam from my talented Guru, but I have also learned many essential skills for my life. Through the numerous hours at the studio, I have learned, taught, and volunteered in all types of classes. All of this experience has taught me the art of organization and time management. These skills have been engrained in my everyday life for great reasons, and I will continue to utilize these habits to be successful in college. Kruti has provided me with a place to enjoy, relax, and make long lasting friendships as well. Through the long hours in class, and the many tense hours spent practicing out of class, the Arangetram Girls have become my family. These girls have taught me the value of friendship, trust, and hard work which have been taught to us by Dina Auntie. I can proudly say that these friendships, personal skills, and dance skills will always be with me through every step of my life. Kruti has contributed a way to help me organize and enjoy my life. I will truly miss Kruti Dance Academy, but will surely be back at every opportunity possible.

• - 5/5

“We dance for laughter, we dance for tears, we dance for madness, we dance for fears, we dance for hopes, we dance for screams, we are the dancers, we create the dreams.” –Angela Monet. An entire world of emotions can be shown through, a tiny movement of the body, or even just a particular change of expression. It can show the dancers entire mood and feelings. It creates an atmosphere that is unforgettable and beautiful. When a dancer starts to dance, the whole world spirals into the world of dance. Kruti Dance Academy has opened new doors for me and led me to opportunities that I could only imagine... When I started to show a spark of interest in dance at a very young age, my parents decided to join me into classes. They first joined me in Bollywood and a year later, in Bharatanatyam. At first, like most little kids, it was just a outside activity that I enjoyed.As I got older, it turned into something else. With every year that went by, I started to admire my Didi’s and I wanted to be just like them. I would go home and tell me parents a funny story they would tell my class or something interesting they said.Through this entire experience, I have thought many times how much I admired and appreciated my Didi’s when I was growing up. Learning a dance from a Didi is a completely different feeling when you, yourself are the Didi. Many times in class, when a child comes up to give me a hug, or a tiny gift, I would feel warmth and appreciation. I will never forget what Kruti has taught me and it will always be a place in my heart. - Sneha Govardhanagiri

• - 5/5

I highly recommend Kruti Dance Academy, the time and dedication spent with each and every one of their students shows out in all their performances, whether it be during recitals or just learning the dances right at the school. My daughter has been a student at Kruti for 6 years and I've seen her grow in her dances and movements, and its all thanks to Kruti Dance Academy.

• - 5/5

For the past 10 years, I've been a part of the kruti family. Family really is the best word for it - Dina Aunty is like a mother to me and Shemoni Didi is like a sister. They've created an academy where success is measured by hard work and creative excellence and I cannot thank my parents enough for putting me in their care. I've grown as a dancer and as a person here and I highly recommend it - Kruti produces excellent dancers and exceptional people and I miss it every day.

• - 5/5

“It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.” –Albert Einstein Dance has always been an important part of my life. Even before formal lessons began, I would jump around the living room to old Hindi songs and mimic my favorite on screen actors during dance numbers. It was learning Bharata Natyam, however, that took this raw passion and refined it into a skill – the ability to express myself through an ancient art form and to connect to my culture through a relic of the past. And for this tutelage, I am grateful for you. The mark of a true teacher, however, goes beyond simply learning a skill. In my opinion, the mark of a true teacher is uncovering a passion. This is what I feel has happened during my time as your student. No matter how sore my legs are, how tired I am of practicing a certain dance, or how hard it is to rise early on Saturday mornings, I simply have to dance. And because of your uncompromising nature when it comes to dance, I have had to dance well. It is this need for my preferred form of expression and my desire to excel at it that I have cultivated under your watchful gaze. And what a gaze it is! As you have demonstrated many times, myriad emotions can be expressed through a single glance, and through both this unspoken communication and more concrete lessons, I have learned so much. I have learned about Indian heritage and culture, about the origins of Bharata Natyam, about the meaning behind hastas and addavus, about the difference between ragas and rasas and tirmanams and tihais. I have learned how to convey a story without speaking a word, how to find the strength to finish a dance when my muscles burn, how to appear calm, collected, and confident while on stage. Other things however, I have learned simply by watching. Whether it is demonstrating an expression or correcting my form, I am always struck by your expertise, and over the years, I have modeled my teaching style, my hardworking nature, and even my presentation face, after yours. You tell us often that these lessons will apply to more than just dance in our future, and I can already see how the lessons I learned at Kruti will help me later in life. In my conversations, I carry the eyes of a dancer, in my class presentations, I have the visage of a performer, and in my everyday endeavors, I apply the creativity of an artist. For these skills and for these memories, I am grateful to you. Facing you now, after nearly twelve years of classes, on the eve of my Arangetram, I am thankful to have has the opportunity to have learned my passion from you, to have gained an education in an ancient art, and to have learned lessons whose value will not fade. Thank you Dina Aunty.

• - 5/5

In the wake of this pandemic, Kruti gave me a routine, a sense of normalcy, and a purpose. It was an opportunity to momentarily forget about everything going on in the world and completely immerse myself in my one constant- dance. Through weekly Zoom classes, I retained connection with my students and learned innovative ways to teach. I can’t thank Dina Aunty and Shemoni didi enough for working so hard to keep classes up and running during these difficult times. Their resilience made me realize how difficult yet essential it is to put others needs before your own and that anything worthwhile takes blood, sweat, and tears to not only create, but to maintain. Kruti has always been my rock and my second family. I can always rely on my gurus and my friends to be there for me and that has only become more evident through Covid. Kruti is my escape from reality but it’s also where I’ve learned some of my most valuable life lessons. These past few months have been no exception. In the face of disappointment and uncertainty regarding the recital and my arangetram, Dina Aunty and Shemoni didi taught me that there is only so much in your control and while fear and frustration are part of the process, it is important not to let it overcome you. Every cloud does have a silver lining, even in this prolonged hurricane that we are currently in. I now see this as an opportunity to learn and engage in the things I never gave myself the time to do before. I am incredibly grateful for everything Kruti has given me not just in the past three months, but in the past thirteen years. Thank you.

• - 5/5

I am a 3rd year student at Kruti Dance Academy and they have never failed to make me as well as my peers feel like we don't belong there. Their innovative choreography has made me want to continue dancing forever. Dena auntie and Shemoni didi have really taken my experience to a whole new level that I thought I would never get to be involved in. This year I have been given the opportunity to volunteer and be involved with the younger Kruti students ; the perspective of helping the amazing growing dancers is giving me a great amount of exposure of what goes into teaching the students at Kruti Dance Academy. Not only have they made me a better dancer, but they have made me a better person.

• - 5/5

Kruti is part of our life for the past 7 years for our family. My 10 year old has enjoyed all recital and not only meeting her friends, but also being challenged by practicing her dance and having discipline around it. My respect for Dina aunty and Shemoni grows each year as they pour their heart and soul into getting our kiddos ready for the recital. We’re truly grateful for how organized and efficient they are in their efforts of delivering best experience for all kruti families.

• - 5/5

This is my daughters' 3rd year at Kruti Dance Academy (They are now 8 and 6). I can't express how much I appreciate that I can share our heritage with my daughters through the work they do at Kruti. For both Dina Aunty and Shemoni, it is obvious that instilling the values of our culture is just as important as learning discipline and enjoying dance. Thank you Kruti Dance Academy!

• - 5/5

Some of the youngest memories I have are of dancing. I have always had a special connection with music that has constantly had me bouncing on my feet as soon as the first beat struck, whether it was in the car on a road trip to visit my uncle, or at my birthday parties, forcing my entire family to dance along with me to the encaptivating beat of Bollywood music. However, whilst having this passionate love for dance and music, I was also an incredibly quiet and shy child, who hated being in the spotlight in front of people she didn’t know. So, when my parents decided that they were going to enroll me in Kruti when I was 7, getting me to try out the class was such a hassle that my mom had to force me in the door and hold the door closed, not letting me out until I gave the class a chance. It wasn’t until one of the didis approached me and coaxed me into following along that I finally felt some sort of comfort, and released the anxiety of all these people being around me. And the rest, as they say, is history. Looking back, it’s astonishing to believe that such a timid young girl could transform into the outgoing and confident person I am today, and a majority of that change is thanks to Kruti. It is here that I discovered my true passion for dancing, and it is here that I discovered my true self. When I entered the Arangetram class four years ago, I was still rather quiet, and didn’t talk as much in front of people that I didn’t really know. It was volunteering that brought out my true character, and allowed me to express myself in a wholly different way, and encouraged me to be carefree, and not care about the world around me. I’ve learned how to be a leader, how to be confident, how to work hard, and also how to manage my stress. Managing my time suddenly became so much more important, what with shuffling 3 hours of Arangetram class and endless hours of volunteering with the high demands of high school. However, it is thanks to my time at Kruti that I have learned these invaluable skills that I know will stay with me forever. It’s hard to imagine my life without dancing, and it’s hard to imagine my life without Kruti. The bonds that I’ve created with my lifelong friends, through all of our early morning and late night practices, our endless inside jokes, and our enormous Starbucks runs, are relationships that, regardless of whether we are all in the same place, will remain strong forever. Thank you for making me the person I am today, and for teaching me that dance is more than just an art, it’s a way of life.

• - 5/5

I started Kruti when I was eleven. I honestly never thought dance would become such a large part of my life. I didn’t fall in love with dance until I started high school. I began to enjoy performing and testing my limits, and then further pushing them as to what I could accomplish. When COVID happened, it was a very strange time. I continued my classes at Kruti online but somehow it didn’t feel the same. During that time I also injured myself to where I could not dance for about three or four months. During that time I had a lot of time to reflect about how much dance actually meant to me. As I approach my Arangetram date, I can’t help but feel nervous but excited as well. I never had a dream or an ultimate end goal growing up, but this is definitely one that I absolutely wish to come true. I couldn’t have made it this far without the guidance of Dina Aunty, the encouragement of Shemoni Didi, or the support from my fellow 2022 girls. I have always been surrounded by such supportive people, never failing to make my day in or out of Kruti. I cannot wait to see where my dance journey goes from here, because one thing I have discovered is that I never want to stop dancing!

• - 5/5

“Where the hand goes, the eyes follow Where the eyes go, the mind follows When the mind is engaged, expressions take form When the expressions take form, rasa, or flavor is evoked.” To be surrounded by an aura that has transformed a small chime in my ghungroos to immense bliss in feeling my feet strike the hard floor, I am blessed to find the rhythm of my life by embarking on a stage that will reflect my journey of dance. Through Dina Aunty and Shemoni Didi’s guidance, I am fortunate enough that Kruti Dance Academy has allowed me to express myself in a hidden language of my soul. It made me realize the vital role dance has played in my life. Dance has molded me into being who I am today and has embedded in me morals and values that I will carry along with me wherever I go in the future. Ten years ago, I stepped into Kruti Dance Academy with my parent's dream to instill Indian culture and heritage and learn to embrace a culture thousands of years old and oceans apart at the beautiful technique of footwork and intricate expressions. Little did I know that I would step into a journey where the guidance of my Guru Dina Aunty and Shemoni Didi would allow me to experience life in the rhythm of leadership and love for my Kruti family. Today, I am privileged to have not one, but two families. Kruti has given me loving and affectionate people such as my Arangetram girls and students to whom I have been fortunate enough to call my best friends. As the mother and sister respectively of this family, Dina Aunty and Shemoni Didi embody the spirit of a true “kalakar” or artist and have allowed me to unlock my full potential present myself confidently through dance, hours of practice, intense studies of Bharata Natyam technique, and other means of communication. Through volunteering, seeing the reflection of how my younger students look at me the same way I looked in awe at my older “didis” reminds me how much a small step towards leadership can resonate to others in the way I challenge myself and present myself to my peers and my own role models. For that, Kruti will always have a spot in my heart, and I am fortunate to walk in the footsteps of Dina Aunty and Shemoni Didi and receive the blessings of a guru who sewed the stitches of an experience that I will cherish forever.

• - 5/5

Kruti Dance Academy is an amazing place to learn to dance. From Bollywood to Bharatanatyam to Hip-Hop, you can learn many different styles of dancing. They also have classes for people of all ages, from children to adults, and there are classes for all different dance expertise levels. It is an amazing place to have fun and learn to dance. I've grown not only as a dancer, but also as a person, as Kruti teaches you responsibility, confidence, and compassion. Dancing at Kruti is a wonderful experience, and I highly recommend it for anyone who wants to learn to dance.

• - 5/5

After spending the past 14 years of my life at Kruti, I can't believe that it's over. From being a student to working at the academy, I've seen the dedication that Dina Aunty and Shemoni Didi put into the academy and just how much their work shows in every student. The Kruti family taught me how to love dance and appreciate my culture as a gift. Both the Bharatanatyam and Bollywood classes at Kruti have taught me so much and I cherish every memory I have from them. This family is truly one that I will forever remember.

• - 5/5

My journey through dance truly began when I entered Kruti Dance Academy in its former Jimmy Carter location so many years ago. Now, after many years, I sadly admit that it is coming to an end. Attending this academy has taught me both poise and grace, along with the dedication, patience, and respect. Under the guidance of Mrs. Dina Sheth, I have learned to push the limits of achievement not only in dance, but in every aspect of my life. Throughout my journey, while learning valuable life lessons, I have also been able to create friendships that will last a lifetime and have become a part of a family that I could turn to in times of need. Dina Aunti has acted as a second mother to me and the Kruti students have become my brothers and sisters. My experiences here have helped me learned so much both about my religion and about my cultural heritage.This summer, I will be completing my Arangetram on August 9th. The preparation for such an event is tremendous, with caterers, invitations, and, most importantly, dance practices. I know that the skills I have attained through my years of volunteering and dancing have prepared me for this moment, and I look forward to every step of the journey. Although my experiences Kruti Dance Academy would be over, I will look back on these years with admiration, always holding the academy in my heart.

• - 5/5

For the last 15 years, Kruti Dance Academy has been an integral part of our lives. From Addavas to Arangetram, Priyam’s journey at Kruti will always be an important part of her life. Under the able guidance of Guru Dinaben and the master choreographer Shemoni Didi, she has not only matured as a graceful dancer but has also acquired several valuable life learning skills like being organized, managing time wisely, being responsible, acquiring good leader leadership qualities, and above all being respectful, compassionate, and understanding to her peers and her students. In the last few years, Priyam’s dedication to Kruti and her burning desire to continue to excel has led her to compromise on several forefronts including, but not limited to, tennis, social events, debate competitions, and family events. Kruti has contributed a lot to Priyam’s well being and inculcated a lot about the Indian culture which we are very proud and happy about. As she started getting more involved with Kruti, whether it be extra classes or volunteering for the next generation of Kruti dancers, her passion and desire to excel in her dancing skills grew stronger day by day. Kruti has become an integral part of Priyam's life. We wish Kruti Dance Academy the very best for all their endeavors and would sincerely like to thank both Dinaben, Shemoni Didi from the bottom of our hearts for making Priyam what she is today.