About Us
A sanctuary where tradition meets inspiration – where classical art is not just preserved, but lived, loved, and passed on.
Our Story — Where Passion Meets Tradition
“The seeds of our school were planted not in a studio, but in the quiet rhythm of ankle bells echoing through childhood memories, in the soulful strains of a tanpura at dawn, and in the stories of gods and goddesses that danced off temple walls.”
Guru Uma Ramesh and Guru Madhavi Jayaprakash began their journey in Bharatanatyam and Carnatic music at a young age — first as curious students, then as devoted performers, and ultimately as passionate teachers trained under the guidance of revered gurus.
In 2014, that dream took shape with the founding of Natya Sasthralaya — a humble beginning with just a few dedicated students and a small practice space. Over time, the school has grown into a thriving community, nurturing hundreds of dancers and musicians.
To pass on the timeless beauty of Bharatanatyam and Carnatic music with sincerity, discipline, and heart — this has always been our purpose.
✦ Founder’s & Director’s Vision ✦
Founder
Guru. Dr. Madhavi Jayaprakash
Kalai Rathna · B.com., M.A(Music), M.A(Bharatanatyam), T.T.C(Music)
“It has been my lifelong vision to create a space where the rich heritage of Carnatic music and Bharatanatyam dance can flourish in their purest forms while inspiring the next generation of artists. Classical arts are not just skills to be mastered, but spiritual journeys that shape character, discipline, and grace.”
Artistic Director
Guru. Dr. Uma Ramesh
Kalai Rathna · B.Sc., M.A(Bharatanatyam), T.T.C(Dance)
“Through every raga, every adavu, and every performance, our students learn not just the techniques, but the deeper values embedded in our classical legacy. We invite you to become part of our growing community, where passion, tradition, and creativity come together in harmony.”
✦ Our Guru Lineage ✦
Bharatanatyam Gurus
Kalaimamani Guru Jayashree Narayanan
Direct disciple of Kalakshetra founder Guru Rukmini Devi Arundale
Kalaimamani Guru Dr. Abhayakaram Krishnan
Bharathi Kala Rathna Guru Jayakoothan
Mohiniyattam Guru
Kalaimamani Kalamandalam Dr. Vichithra Palicandy
Carnatic Music Gurus
Champakara Dr. S. Suresh Kumar
Kalai Rathna Guru Vembu Angappan
✦ Our Philosophy ✦
01
Authentic Lineage
Our training is rooted in the traditional guru-shishya parampara, ensuring authentic technique, repertoire, and philosophy are passed down with integrity.
02
Value-Based Education
Discipline, respect, humility, and devotion (bhakti) are embedded in our curriculum — instilling values that extend far beyond the dance floor.
03
Cultural Preservation
We believe classical arts are not just skills to be mastered, but spiritual journeys that shape character, discipline, and grace across generations.
04
Joyful Transformation
Whether beginner or advanced, Natya Sasthralaya welcomes you into a family where learning is joyful, deep, and transformative.