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Kalānanda Kuchipudi Dance Academy

Mastering Body · Awakening Soul · Dancing Bliss

Current CLASSES

Classes & Workshops: Classes

I. Yakshagana kuchipudi 
Beginner's Class 

 

 

 

This unique class offers strong foundational training in the traditional Yakshagana style of Kuchipudi, rooted in the lineage of Guru Pasumarthy Rattaiah Sharma from Kuchipudi village.  

Students begin with traditional body conditioning exercises, followed by learning asamyutha (single-hand) and samyutha hastas (double-hand gestures) as outlined in the Abhinaya Darpanam, practiced alongside basic dance posture.  As students build strength and ease in posture, they progress through structured rhythmic exercises (adavus), combining coordinated movements of the feet, legs, arms, and hands. This leads to the learning of jathis—complex rhythmic patterns.  Introduction of expressive elements like drishti bhedas (eye movements) and greeva bhedas (neck movements) start during the step phase.  Expression is integrated from the very beginning—students are encouraged to move with joy, intention, and feeling. Each class includes Sanskrit shloka recitation, introductory yoga, pranayama, singing, storytelling, and conversational Telugu, nurturing a holistic understanding of the art form.  The class also emphasizes values such as respect, diligence, and self-confidence, supporting personal growth alongside classical training.​​

OPEN TO AGES 7+ (Male & Female)​

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​This class offers strong foundational training in the classical Kuchipudi style codified by Padma Bhushan Guru Vempati Chinna Satyam.  

Training begins with the characteristic Kuchipudi aramandi (half-sitting) posture and alignment principles.  With growing strength and body awareness, students progress through a carefully sequenced set of adavus (basic rhythmic steps) and jathis (composed rhythmic patterns), with a focus on timing, control, and grace.   Asamyutha, samyutha hastas (single and double-hand gestures), and pada bedhas (feet movements) are taught in a structured format.  Throughout the course, students are immersed in the cultural and spiritual context of Kuchipudi. Each class includes Sanskrit shloka chanting, storytelling, basic pranayama, singing, and conversational Telugu, fostering a holistic and grounded learning environment. Students are also encouraged to develop qualities such as focus, humility, and self-discipline—core to both the art and the artist.

OPEN TO AGES 7+ (Male & Female)​

 

 

 

 

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This class is offered on an individual basis following an assessment of the student's proficiency in fundamental steps (adavus) and jathis.

In this phase, students begin learning the classical repertoire of Kuchipudi as codified by Guru Vempati Chinna Satyam. Emphasis is placed on both technical accuracy and expressive depth, with students being guided in the refined abhinaya (expressive language) unique to the Vempati tradition. Dancers are encouraged to engage fully—physically, emotionally, and mentally—with the meaning and feeling of each piece.  Continued practice of steps and jathis supports the development of strength, stamina, and precision.  Alongside practical training, theory instruction and holistic learning—through language, literature, music, and philosophy—are deepened to enrich the student's understanding of the art form.

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 This class is thoughtfully designed for adults who wish to experience the joy, serenity, and expressive richness of Indian classical dance in an accessible and nurturing environment. Without the physical intensity of formal Kuchipudi training, students will explore foundational aspects of the art form, including basic movements, hand gestures (mudras), and eye and neck coordination.

Classes incorporate choreographed pieces set to beautiful devotional music, offering students the opportunity to connect deeply with emotion and energy through movement and expression. This practice not only honors the tradition of Kuchipudi but also invites participants to access inner states often overlooked in daily life.

Kuchipudi Wellness is dedicated to promoting mental clarity, physical vitality, and spiritual well-being.

 

The class is open to adults of all backgrounds—no prior dance experience is required.

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​IN PERSON CLASSES IN CEDAR PARk, TX

(Opposite Vista Ridge High School)

Centrally located to North Austin, Leander, Liberty Hill, Round Rock, Georgetown, Plflugerville,

Manor, Hutto, South Austin, and Buda ​​

Online classes also available 

All decisions regarding enrollment and class matters are subject to the teacher’s discretion

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II. Vempati Kuchipudi 

   Beginner's Class 

III. Kuchipudi Wellness

adult class

II. Vempati Kuchipudi 

   intermediate Class 

©2018 by Akhila, Kuchipudi Artist. Proudly created with Wix.com

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