Bharatanatyam Basics For Beginners in Washington Metro Area

• - 5/5

A truly amazing place to learn the nuances of creative contemporary and classical dances. Dipanwita is truly devoted to the advancement of all the students. A great platform to get future opportunities and a must for budding dancers. Had a great time as a dancer here!

• - 5/5

Being associated with Kaleidoscope has been an absolute pleasure and Iam fortunate enough to have a teacher like Dr.Dipanwita Sengupta. Every class I attended enhances my interest in the dace form and encourages me to look forward to learning even more. The positive vibes and the dedicated environment that Kaleidoscope provides is very motivating and peaceful. Very creative n innovative atmosphere. Very grateful.

• - 5/5

As the quote stated by Oprah Winfrey, Everyday brings a chance for you to draw in a breath, kick off your shoes, and dance. This, completely goes with those who are fortunate to even kick-start dancing after years. I have been learning Bharatnatyam since i was 2 years old, but had to discontinue. Never in my slightest fantasies, thought i could continue it here, Abroad!! All credits goes to my Guru-Ma: Dr Dipanwita Sengupta Roy, whose language of dance lifted the veil in me to continue weaving the tingles of dance even after years. Her patience and dedication to instill the rhythms of creative and classical dance in every individual is phenomenal. Joining Kaleidoscope family here, gave me a lot of peace and happiness.

• - 5/5

My daughter has been a Kaleidoscope member for 3+ years now and loves it. She’s been learning creative and bharatnatyam dance forms there. Dipanwita Sengupta is a wonderful teacher- she is very talented, understanding and kind. If they have the drive, she works with all of the students to make sure they improve from class to class and learn something new. I will highly recommend Kaleidoscope!!

• - 5/5

My love and passion for dance got a new direction with kaleidoscope. I really enjoy learning the classics of bharatanatyam as well as the beautiful creative dance form. Our guru Dipanwita ma’m is very caring and she mentors every student individually with equal importance . I am looking forward to perform on public stage under the kaleidoscope banner. More power to kaleidoscope and our beloved guru Dipanwita ma’m??

• - 5/5

Being a non-dancer, I’ve been on the lookout to exposing my (then) 4 year old to different dance forms. Dipanwita and Kaleidoscope Dance Academy was introduced to me through a mutual friend and I’ve not looked back since then (it’s been a couple years). Dipanwita has been grooming my daughter through various nuances of Bharatnatyam (Indian classical form) dance techniques, expressing ideas & songs creatively and providing opportunities to perform thus boosting confidence & reinforcing learning. She looks forward to learning something new in each class and strengthening her bond with her guru (Dipanwita) & dance friends.

• - 5/5

Dance is the best art form for me to express as well as connect to myself in the spiritual level. Kaleidoscope has been the perfect place to help me accomplish that. Our guru Dr. Dipanwita Sengupta is an immense source of our inspiration who nurtures our passion for Indian classical dance forms through her excellent mentorship. I wholeheartedly extend my gratitude to her and my friends in the school to form a family far away from my home.

• - 5/5

As a long-time student at Kaleidoscope, I can attest to the exceptional quality of teaching and mentorship offered by Guru Dipanwita Sengupta in the realms of Bharatanatyam and Indian Creative dance forms. From the very inception of this establishment, Kaleidoscope has been a beacon of artistic excellence, fostering a vibrant learning environment that nurtures both skill and passion. Dipanwita Madam is a meticulous and dedicated teacher and ensures the best learning environment in the class. Students are not merely taught dance steps, they are immersed in the rich traditions and cultural nuances of Bharatanatyam and Indian Creative dance forms. One of the hallmarks of Kaleidoscope is its commitment to providing students with opportunities to showcase their talents on prestigious platforms and art events across the US and beyond. It's a space for thriving and flourishing! I have had the best experiences of learning dance and building a sense of belonging. I have my highest recommendations!

• - 5/5

I’m Payel. I’m a Bharatanatyam dancer. Started learning from 4 and half year of my age.Now I’m staying in Lewis Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA. After moving from India I was looking for Indian creative and classical dance school, where I can continue my practice and cherish my dream. So after few weeks I found Dipanwita(di) Sengupta Roy and kaleidoscope dance academy. She’s my guru and I get guidance from her like an elder sister. My 7 years old daughter also started learning Indian creative dance and Bharatanatyam from November 2023. And my younger daughter she’s 3 years old, she’ll be joining dance class from May,2024. What I have felt about Dipanwita di is she has great source of knowledge in theory and practical in both dance forms. Which I admire very much because it’s important to know what we’re learning and our kids also learn. Dipanwita di adores her students and really takes care of them. As a student I felt it.

• - 5/5

Since I joined Kaleidoscope, I have loved everyday with Guru Dipanwita Sengupta. She is not only a teacher but also makes me feel motivated and a part of her own family. I am learning Indian Creative Dance and Bharatnatyam from her. As a dance-lover, it is a great feeling to be able to learn two dance forms at the same time. She also encourages and helps people to appear on dance exams which is an added benefit for a person like me who has never had a chance to do so before. Joining Kaleidoscope is easy and affordable. I wholeheartedly thank her for providing me this wholesome experience.

• - 5/5

My daughter 7yrs started learning Bharatanatyam and Indian Creative Dance from Guru Dipanwita Sengupta Roy for last two years. My daughter loves and enjoys learning two different unique dance forms from her Guru. Dipanwita is a patient, detailed oriented and a motivated teacher and works with each student to improve them. She also explains and makes dancing a hand on learning fun creative learning process for her students. My daughter loves going to her weekly dance classes and enjoys performing with her Dance Academy friends. I highly recommend Kaleidoscope.

• - 5/5

Kaleidoscope Dance Academy is a temple of art that primarily teaches Creative Dance and Bharatnatyam. Dr. Dipanwita Sengupta Roy who is a scientist by profession is also a Dance Maestro and founder of Kaleidoscope Dance Academy. She is the pioneer in introducing Indian Creative Dance in Ohio, USA and has been sharing her passion for dance in the form of teaching students (all ages irrespective of their experience and expertise in the field). I have been very fortunate to be able to learn from our very dear Dipanwita Didi (as we call her) and have her as my Dance Guru. Not only is she an exceptionally graceful dancer herself, but also an excellent teacher. She is very patient and teaches her students with love and passion. It is amazing to see the little kids and teenagers perform as gracefully as the older students. One of the many things that makes this group unique is there are students with different levels of expertise (with or without previous dance experience), students who have always wanted to dance but for some reason could never pursue their passion, students who had to distance themselves from dance for some reason-Kaleidoscope Dance Academy brings them all together on one platform. It has been 4 years since I joined this dance group and it brings me joy in seeing it grow over the years as 1 big dance family. I take pride in our team and I highly recommend all those interested in reaching out to us. Dipanwita di, thank you for everything you do and may you(we) keep spreading joy (in the form of dance) globally!

• - 5/5

I thoroughly enjoy being a part of Kaleidoscope dance academy. On my very first dance class, not only I felt extremely happy and included but it felt like I revisited a long lost friend- a bond with dance. Guru Dipanwita Ma’am is an amazing teacher who always motivates and encourages us to do better at dance very patiently. I am really grateful to be a part of this community which is both creative and positive with amazing people to guide and celebrate.

• - 5/5

I watched the dance drama performance, The Dance to Destiny, performed by Kaleidoscope. It was a mesmerizing journey of passion, creativity, and storytelling of a little girl. It felt as though she was fulfilling a long-awaited destiny, one shaped by her deep love for dance. It was like opening the pages of an unread book and going through the excitement of unknown emotions. The music of life was reverberated in every episode of the presentation from the beginning to the end. The elegant moves and the choreography were a new addition to the current dance styles representing a brilliant fusion of contemporary and classical styles. The dancer’s elegant movements -sprints, gallops, leaps, twists and turns were gracefully presented with defined gestures painting a vivid picture of expressions. The coordination of eyes, ears, body, mind, and the heart was choreographed with detailed attention. Besides techniques, the emotional depth elicited the connection with the music enriching the presentation. The costumes, lighting, the set design, and the synchronization of the performers perfectly complemented the choreography and impacted the storytelling. The “dance to destiny” was a captivating display of artistry, precision, and emotion, leaving me profoundly moved. Overall, the “dance to destiny” is a masterful expression of storytelling depicting a little girl's love and passion for dance transformed to dream and destiny.

• - 5/5

My two daughters and me are learning Bharatanatyam and Indian Creative Dancing from Mrs Dipanwita Sengupta Roy since 2020. She has been such an inspiration to us. Her knowledge, techniques, and her dedication drives us to be more successful and sincere. She teaches both online and in person so that gives you lot more flexibility on your schedule. Finally, she is very humble, patient and down to earth which helps her new learners feel comfortable from the very first class. She always takes time to answer all your questions. I'd highly recommend Kaleidoscope for yourself and your family and friends, if you want to learn Indian Creative Dancing or Bharatanatyam.

• - 5/5

Kaleidoscope Dance Academy, led by the exceptionally talented Dr. Dipanwita Sengupta Roy, is a haven for anyone passionate about Bharatanatyam and creative dance forms. This academy beautifully blends the rich traditions of Bharatanatyam with innovative choreography, making it a standout institution for both beginners and advanced dancers. Dr. Dipanwita is not just a teacher; she is a mentor, artist, and visionary who brings out the best in each student. Her deep knowledge, patience, and unique teaching methods make learning Bharatanatyam a truly enriching experience. She ensures that students not only master technique and rhythm but also understand the expression (bhava) and storytelling aspects of this classical dance form. ? Highly recommended for all dance enthusiasts!

• - 5/5

I joined kaleidoscope creative dance class in 2023 as a beginner . I consider myself lucky to be part of this dance group and to be guided and taught by my very talented guru Dipanwita Sengupta who happens to be a good friend . I have grown as a dancer and this keeps me grounded . I would recommend this dance school which teaches bharatnatyam as a base and creative dance to one and all for all age groups .

• - 5/5

I have been fortunate to learn Bharatnatyam and Creative Dancing under Guru Dipanwita Ma’am, and it has been a truly enriching experience. I’ve always wanted to learn an Indian classical dance form, and finding such an opportunity, especially while living abroad, is rare. Dipanwita Ma’am is an exceptional teacher who shows tremendous patience with her students. She focuses not only on the technical aspects but also on explaining the history, emotion, and spiritual meaning behind each movement. Even someone with no prior dance experience like me is able to grasp the skills easily. As students, we are also given the opportunity to perform at the annual recital, which is a wonderful event to showcase our talents and foster a spirit of collaboration. The Kaleidoscope community is warm and welcoming, making it easy for students to ask questions and share their thoughts. I am deeply grateful for the guidance I’ve received from Dipanwita Ma’am, and I highly recommend her to anyone interested in learning Bharatnatyam and creative dancing.

• - 5/5

Kaleidoscope is a wonderful platform for my daughter to learn creative and Indian classical dance, my daughter enjoy learning at the classes and workshops. We wish all the very best to Kaleidoscopes instructors and organizers!!

• - 5/5

Dipanwita ji is highly talented in her field of dance. I'm proud my kids are her students, she teaches Bharatanatyam, creative dance forms with at most patience and dedication. She handled my kid right from the age of 3 and developed her interest towards dance in a very enjoyable manner. Both dance forms are given equal importance and thought dedicatedly to her students and through which every emotions are conveyed effectively. And she encourages her students to validate their knowledge through certification program which will definitely help them in future. I highly recommend Dipanwita mam

• - 5/5

Great teacher and great experience! Only thing that could have made it better was a dance video for homework as well so that we dont forget the dances in a couple of weeks lag time if we couldn't make it to the class. She reviews the full dance every week over and over again, however, that time could be saved and could move up to a new song faster if a take home video is allowed in order to revise what was done in classes. Overall, a great stress relieving class!

• - 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

awesome performances

• - 5/5

My child loves going here. Very good instruction. Safe.

• - 5/5

I LOVE kruti! This is my 8th years there and it ROCKS!

• - 5/5

Kruti has a very calming and creative environment that makes you happy as soon as you step in the door.

• - 5/5

I have been going to Kruti Academy for over a year and the teachers have already taught me so much. I have made some great friends and memories that I will never forget.

• - 5/5

Was a little hesitant and nervous when I first joined but It was one of the best experiences I ever had in class and the final recitals performing in front of a crowd. All the new friends I made along the way was great as well

• - 5/5

I got to watch Kruti Dance Academy perform at the Carter Center for the Lillian Carter Award ceremony and they were fantastic! Beautiful choreography and talented performers!

• - 5/5

We were so pleased with how well organized, detail oriented and easy everything was to follow and understand; from the dance moves online to the many details leading up to the recital. The whole experience was beautifully executed and so much fun!

• - 5/5

Before I discuss how I feel now, I wanted to go back to something I wrote about the Arangetram class in April. I wish I had written more at the beginning of this pandemic. Looking back, I cannot even remember what I did the first few weeks, besides playing video games and feeling pity for myself because I was lonely. Although that period of time was brief, I want to acknowledge it as the plummet I needed before I could rise up during this time. I had jotted down in my sporadic moments of journaling, the words, “detachment,” and, “devoid.” I think these sentiments really fit how I was feeling at the time. In contrast to my usually vivid emotional memories. I felt a lack of panic, excitement, really anything. But it quickly dawned upon me that this detached feeling was not natural. I wanted to circumvent the reaction that the world seemed to be having, and I was almost successful, if it had not been for a few reality checks (these zoom classes included) that reminded me I had to wake up each day and experience life regardless and inclusive of the circumstances, and I could not simply shut down for 5 months during this time. A few weeks ago, we started doing classes over Zoom. Even though this is still sort of foreign for us, I feel like just having an outlet of people to interact and talk with has given me so much more energy. It's so strange that I actually feel much more energized to tackle my Saturday early morning than I do my much more rested Monday afternoon. I've found that these Saturday morning calls are actually something I look forward to, and it's almost like it's something my week sort of builds up to. Fast forward several months, and my understanding of not only myself, but my direction in life is much less hazy than it once was. When I think about myself, the words “cynical” and “negative” tend to come up. I find myself scrutinizing positive quotes. When I hear people talking about how to live life to the fullest, my mind wanders into a pit of negativity and self-pity. And that is the truth. But this journey that we are all on together, has taught that there is in fact something beyond that hill of despair. There is hope for something better, for understanding, and for forgiveness. This arangetram class, and the things DA talks about, have resonated deeply within me. They have given me the strength to question why my brain does the things it does, and rewire myself to set goals, and give myself positive reinforcement when I achieve those goals. I had to face the hard truth that a negative mind will never give me a positive life. And I have learned that there is so much beauty in that journey. So thank you DA, SD, and everyone in this class for giving me the opportunity to see my life with more perspective. I still have weeks where I do not fulfil my potential, and I do still disappoint myself in class sometimes. But without the motivation I receive from this class, I would probably find myself spiraling into negative thoughts that are totally unproductive. I must remember that a negative mind will never give me what I want, a positive life.

• - 5/5

Mankruti is very great Dance academy. I started my Dance Journey with these amazing Choreographers. I learned lot and to perform with this group is unforgettable. I love it

• - 5/5

Congratulations on the success of 21st Recital. My daughter Aarya is fortunate to be a part Kruti journey. Having so much of dedication and sincerity even after 21 years is commendable and I applaud you for that. The institute is like a Gurukul, that imparts knowledge beyond dance. ????????

• - 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

My daughter Zara just completed her 1st Dance Recital on stage and she was mesmerized by the whole experience. The show was brilliantly conceptualized and very professionally executed. It most certainly exceeded all our expectations. Dina Aunty and Shemoni are highly creative and extremely dedicated to the craft of art and dance. Highly recommended.

• - 5/5

Highly recommend this dance studio. My daughters have been dancing there for 6 years. There is no other studio in Atlanta that runs their organization as methodically as this one. Both the founder and director have backgrounds in classical Bharatnathyam dance and they teach students in a creative, logical and consistent manner. There are classes in both Bollywood and Bharatnathyam, so your child can choose one or both types of classes. Additionally, there are adult Bollywood classes available. Communication with the studio is prompt and clear, so always feel free to email with any questions before or after you sign up. Your kids will love dancing there because the environment is fun and full of energy. There is a huge waiting lounge above the dance studios with WI-FI, which makes it convenient to wait while your child has class. Don't hesitate to contact them! Kurt Dance Academy is the best and their name is recognized not only nationally, but globally as well!

• - 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

In beginning of my dance journey as a five-year-old I was unable to the impact dance would have on my comprehend or even imagine the eager to go to dance class. enjoyed how earlier dance l was always smile to my when times were hard. dancing made me feel. It always brought a that I could do on In the dance was something fun Asl able to understand how much dance has impacted my not physically but and emotionally. Every weekend learning something new different challenges such as not being able to properly sit in aramandin having my elbows, later learned that those challenges helped me to become a better and smarter dancer. with constant support of Dina Aunty and Shemoni Didi, l was able recognize that dance was not merely about having straight arms or smiling but it was about the connection between a dancer and her music. Dina Aunty and Shemoni Didi have both played a big role in my life; they continuously push me to not only be good dancer but also a good person. Dance has shown me that no matter where you come from, it also has a way of bringing people together. Those I have met have helped shape who I am today. These fellow dancers, who are motivated, hardworking, and intelligent have helped to motivate me to become a better dancer. As the day of my Arangetram approaches, I am thankful for every person who has encouraged me to continue my passion for dance.

• - 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

This year's recital, which took place this past weekend, was incredibly inspiring with its timely theme of global unity, reminding us of how we are all connected through the universal languages of music and dance. The choreography, costumes, song choices, and different backdrops for every dance were absolutely breathtaking!

• - 5/5

Congratulations to both of you on the success of the 22nd Annual Dance Concert. It was a spectacular and beautiful show! What a wonderful year it’s been! It was also wonderful to see the development of all the dancers and in particular your senior dancers. Their dances were so impressive and powerful! Wow! It’s so much fun to watch the range of choreography including the dances that challenged and showed the strengths of the dancers. Your advanced choreography skills allowed your dancers to stand out and shine. Their flawless performances were due to the patience and experience you brought to them as an accomplished teacher and dancer. I think this is one of the many things that sets Kruti apart from other studios. You care so much about every child and it really shows. I don't know how you were standing after the show, but heaps of praise to you in all you accomplished. You clearly make everyone feel so valued, younger or senior, first timers or old students. From the first recital meeting to the costume ordering and recital communication, everything was wonderful and top notch. Being back stage, it was very clear to see how much planning, communication and attention went in to each performance. I am beyond words at how amazing that recital was! It flowed beautifully, was completely entrancing, and I simply loved watching every minute of it!! Everything was well planned, well organized and promptly executed. I really loved the Shivoham along with the enchanting music ...it got me into gooseflesh. Next I don’t have any words for the Paayal dance...it was absolutely stunning. Hats off to both of you for beautiful choreography...nevertheless it was perfect because of the excellent teamwork. I want to especially thank all the team leaders; I could see them standing there in charge tirelessly till they handed over our children. This needs a lot of responsibility and goodwill. All these things need very discrete preparation and training. It couldn’t have been easy, forging this connection, creating community from chaos. You took a hodge-podge group of random students — children with varying abilities, from every imaginable family structure, from a broad sampling of cultures and religions — and you built a culture and family of your own. If the whole world could see what you have accomplished at your studio, with these precious, different-but-same children, I have to believe the whole planet would be different. Better. And you know what? The world is different, the world is better, because of what you have achieved here at Kruti Studio, with these growing groups. Parents have got the easy job of raising our own kids. They are rewarded for all their sacrifices with the joy of watching their own blood grow up into fine young men and women. But you have got the tough jobs. As their guru, your rewards are limited to the hope that your wisdom will make a tiny difference into the lives of children, helping them to be better human beings. Thank you for all your selfless contribution. A good teacher is everything a parent can never be. Thanks, for being one. It is impossible to thank a guru. There are no words, to appreciate someone whose words empower children to chase their dreams. We parents may be accountants, scientists, doctors and engineers – but nothing contributes to the nation’s development more than what a teacher can do. Thanks for giving my LITTLE one BIG dream. As a wonderful teacher, you may not realize that all good teachers have good parental qualities. But as a good parent, I realize that I don’t have exquisite teaching qualities like yours. Technology will keep evolving but nothing can replace the power of a teacher’s inspirational words. Thank you for modeling patience, honesty, courage, perseverance, wisdom, responsibility, generosity, and a commitment to lifelong learning to the best of your ability each and every day. I owe you a debt of gratitude that I can never repay.

• - 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

Kruti's recital was so impressive that my 5 yr old son wants to be a student of Kruti. He will join Bollywood from 2017 Fall. I just wanted to share my happiness and feelings that you succeeded in motivating a 5 yr old.

• - 5/5

“A dream doesn’t become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work.” - Colin Powell. As I embark on the next stage in my dance journey, my arangetram, I cannot forget the plethora of stages I went through to be where I am today. This journey has taken a myriad of paths, each having its own curves and bumps. From learning to strike my foot with power and transforming my fingers into elegant hand gestures to being able to dance in front of thousands of people today with grace, poise, and strength, I have come a long way. My parents first enrolled me in classical dance at Kruti Dance Academy with the intention that this would be a way that I could learn about my rich Indian culture and that somehow I would still be connected to my Motherland thousands of miles away. Little did they know that dance would soon become a colossal part of my life down the road, and that today I would be preparing for my arangetram. 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. Who I am today would not be possible without my Kruti Family. Kruti has given me loving and affectionate people like Dina Aunty and Shemonididi and has given me best friends that I can truly connect to in every way. Many people ask what exactly an arangetram is and what the importance of it is. An arangetram is a graduation of dance or a graduation of the years of dance training that one has completed. Similar to a high school or college graduation, an arangetram does not mean that one is done with dancing forever; it is actually the beginning of a new chapter in life. One can now take their dance knowledge and experience and use it in various aspects of their life. An arangetram means more than being able to say that you have completed your dance graduation; it is the memories and satisfaction that you receive afterwards that truly defines what an arangetram is. As I inch closer and closer to my arangetram, I cannot wait to attain this feeling and officially be an Alumn from Kruti Dance Academy on July 19, 2014.

• - 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

I saw the Kruti Indian Dance Academy perform last week in front of President Carter and a large audience at an award ceremony honoring a Peace Corps Volunteer. They were fantastic! Their performance was beautiful and elegant, and they were a highlight of the evening.

• - 5/5

Indeed an honor to embark and experience the incredible dance journey at the highly reputable Kruti Dance Academy for nine years. We feel extremely fortunate, proud and privileged to have been a part of Kruti, helmed by acclaimed Guru Mrs. Dina Sheth, and vibrant Artistic Director, Shemoni Parekh. Words cannot quite express, our deep emotions on the transformation we witnessed in Shreya’s personality and skills acquired in both Bharata Natyam classical and Bollywood dancing during the past nine years, culminating in a wonderful Bharata Natynam Arangetram under the tutelage of Mrs. Guru Dina Sheth. It was astounding. In tandem with Dinaben, we were able to nurture, respect, guide, enrich, encourage, inspire, motivate and support Shreya’ s passion for dance every step of the way to meet her goals. However, it is only at Kruti Dance Academy where Shreya learned the true meaning of our vibrant culture and traditions, dedication, determination, discipline, time management, precision, importance of hard work, perseverance, confidence, patience, volunteering and teamwork. These very essential principles and values will also help Shreya to cope with the dance and university of life! Mrs. Shemoni Parekh helped open the door for self discovery and expression through dance in a culturally innovative and vibrant atmosphere, spreading awareness, knowledge, love, laughter, and joy, to all both locally and internationally. Kruti Dance Academy will always be one of our most cherished and priceless memories. Thank you for making a huge difference in our lives and for helping us to keep our flames alive. Thanks much for providing a highly disciplined and rich loving learning environment and loving home for Shreya and us. You have definitely helped enrich and empower us in ways more than one. Atlanta is extremely fortunate to have a Guru who truly cares, listens, observes, disciplines and nurtures her disciples in a realistic manner, and a very talented and vivacious Shemoni didi, who is equally committed to her students, while raising the bar and awareness in the community, nationally and internationally. A wonderful and flawless tango indeed, all under one roof! We will be forever be grateful to highly respected, Guru Mrs. Dina Sheth, and Artistic Director, Mrs. Shemoni Parekh, and of course, the Kruti Dance Academy family! May God bestow you with His blessings always. -Harshad, Sandhya, and Shreya Shah

• - 5/5

Kruti Dance Academy ! I can only think of gratitude and absolute joy and well nostalgia now, when I look back at the time spent with this magnificent institute. I am forever thankful to Ms. Dina Sheth for her generosity in providing me a fantastic platform for teaching Indian vocal music to so many students that was made possible only due to my connect with the academy. I got the greatest opportunity to showcase my talent, to teach, to perform, and well so much more in entirety! The institute is one of spectacular creativity, whilst offering such a broad spectrum of teachings to wide audiences. It’s a great pleasure to watch one and all students, echoing the indian culture through varied forms of dance with precision and mesmerising moves, all wonderfully taught by the Kruti Team lead by the Maverick Ms. Dina Sheth and now right behind her, her gracious and super talented daughter, Ms. Shemoni Sheth.

• - 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

“There will be no wisdom, no learning, no art, nor craft, no device, nor action that is not found within natya. - Bharata, Natya Sastra. We strongly believe in this, and thus started a journey together with Neha when we joined the Kruti family 12 years back. Some people learn to dance, but Neha was born to dance. She joined Kruti at the age of 4. Neha was very enthusiastic from a young age to learn this art form, and wanted to master it. Neha found the perfect guru, role model, and mentor in Dina Aunty. She was always encouraging, empathetic, and supportive. Dina Aunty also nurtured Neha’s dancing skills and provided multiple venues for her to perform for, even from the tender age of 5. Shemoni has also been a role model and strong supporter for Neha and is always available whenever we need her. As parents, we could always count on Shemoni, who exemplified a perfect example of balancing education while still following up on passion for dance, and excelling in both. Through her training from Kruti, Neha has not only became a soulful dancer but also emerged as a good leader. She learned time management skills, stress reduction strategies, and much more from Kruti. Neha also learns other art forms including Western and Carnatic vocal, violin, etc., which we believe has elevated her dancing to a new level. Even though she is attending the most rigorous school in the state, GSMST, she spends her weekends at Kruti with enthusiasm, and at the same time excels in studies and other activities. We are very proud of our precious Neha and thank God immensely for all his blessings. We also want to thank Dina aunty and Shemoni for being there, for encouraging us, and for all their efforts to promote Indian culture and values through this divine art form. Bharat Muni says, “Vibhaavaanubhaav vyabhichaari samyogat ras nishpatti,” meaning out of the combination (samayoga), of the determinants (vibhava), the consequents (anubhava), and the transitory mental status (vyabhichari), the birth of emotion (rasa) takes place. As Neha is getting ready to perform her arangetram ceremony, we pray that she can exhibit perfectly the bhava, rasa, and natya elements of Bharatanatyam and thus fulfill her dream of being a complete dancer.