Since its establishment in 2009, Natyashala Academy of Fine Arts has been dedicated to promoting the art of Bharatnatyam by imparting knowledge to its disciples. Based in Pune, the academy aims to groom world-class performers who not only excel in their craft but also become better human beings and future torchbearers of this dance form. Along with providing training, Natyashala Academy also offers opportunities for performances and encourages research in classical dance, music, theater, and fine arts. By teaching the vital aspects of Indian Mythology through Bharatanatyam, the academy instills curiosity and enthusiasm among newcomers while discovering and nurturing new talents. Through the Indian art forms, Natyashala Academy develops confident personalities among its students.
Smt. Charanya Gurusathya, the Artistic Director of Natyashala Academy, is a prodigious Bharatnatyam dancer who began her training in childhood. With a dual master’s degree in HR management and Fine Arts (Bharatnatyam), she has made noteworthy contributions to the field of dance. Her research has been published in various International Journals such as the Central European Journal of Sport Sciences and Medicine of Poland, and the UK Journal of Orthopedics, as well as in prominent Indian dance forums like Narthaki, Classical Claps, Loud Applause, SAMVAAD, and Narthanam. She is currently pursuing a PhD in the field of dance. With over 25 years of experience, Smt. Charanya Gurusathya has performed in more than 500 dance festivals and has delivered lectures and conducted workshops in countries like USA, France, and Germany. Her expertise and achievements in the field of Bharatnatyam are truly exceptional.
Smt. Charanya is passionate about her work and proudly states that,
“Among many dance productions, the recent ones featured in popular dance portal Indian Raga has received wide acclaim from the global audiences with over 50K views and likes.”
Since June 2020, Smt. Charanya Gurusathya has been presenting and curating the ‘Digital Talk Series’ on the topic of “COVID19 and way forward in Performing Arts.” Her discussions with dancers from all around the world, including countries like Australia, Bahamas, Italy, France, Argentina, have been garnering over 250K views on social media platforms. As an active member of the ‘International Dance Council’ in partnership with UNESCO, she has curated numerous online lectures and presented papers across universities, addressing students and art connoisseurs. She has also been curating online events and hosting prestigious government authorities, such as the ICCR Director, SPICMACAY Coordinator, and Eastern Cultural Zone Director.
Natyashala always believes in making a difference to the lives of needy. In association with NakshatraMeen Foundation, Natyashala has been conducting dance classes at various organizations like Sevalaya – Chennai, Rachna Girls Hostel- Panshet, Thiravu Trust – Tamil Nadu, Sutradhar – Pune; thereby trying to make a little mark into the lives of underprivileged kids, teaching them core values of life through dance. Natyashala also offers internship programs to potential students by providing opportunity to work with children from remote areas.
Smt. Charanya believes that by practicing and performing dance, one becomes confident in their self-expressions, by which a holistic development happens in a child’s life. Current generation kids are undergoing different kinds of stress, academic pressure, peer pressure and monotonous routines. Dancing releases happy hormones and allows one to stay healthy and happy.
It has been her parents and teachers who had inspired her to be professionally successful. Their commitment, dedication and discipline has always been the binding force behind her feat. She feels that her fun way of teaching dance has been unique and is a great way to develop strength, flexibility and poise. To all budding artists she wants to convey that,
“Dance is an artistic way of expressing one’s feelings and emotions. It carves one into a complete disciplined individual. Stay grounded, humble and follow the basic Ps – Practice, Perseverance, and Perform.”
Smt. Charanya Gurusathya’s exceptional work has earned her widespread recognition, and she has received numerous awards and accolades. In 2021, she was honored with the Guinness World Record. She was also awarded the InSc Institute of Scholars Academic Excellence Award 2022, Saraswati Dadasaheb Phalke Women Achievers Award 2021, Nritya Shiromani by Griffin College London in 2021, ICON Awards 2021 for dance federation of India, and the Savyasachi Educator Award for 2020. Additionally, she was invited as a delegate speaker at the 23rd General Assembly of the International Dance Council held at UNESCO HQs in Paris in December 2019. We extend our best wishes to her for all her future endeavors.
