Diya Niranjan has been diligently trained in Bharathanatyam by Guru Smt. Sheela Ramanath at Kalavaridhi from the age of seven. Under Guru Sheela's persistent guidance, Diya has evolved into the accomplished dancer she is today. Bharathanatyam has not only been a crucial aspect of Diya’s life but also a window into Hindu mythology and narratives, enhancing her physical resilience and mental fortitude, and shaping her identity. Her love for art has flourished through this dance journey, nurtured by Guru Sheela’s patient mentorship.

A rising junior at Independence High School, Diya is actively involved in various school activities. She participates in Independence DECA, achieving recognition at Virginia’s State Leadership Conference for two consecutive years. Committed to community service, she tutors and mentors children at Elaine Thompson Elementary, Eye Level Tutoring Center, Brambleton Middle School, and in her dance classes. Diya is the pioneer of the Career Quest club at her school, aiming to develop a website to assist students in exploring diverse career paths. Her interest in computer science has led her to internships at Skill Struck, a start-up, and Dove Wing Technologies, where she gains practical experience.

Diya is also dedicated to raising cancer awareness. She aspires to use her talent in dance to generate funds for the Krishnan Family Foundation, which focuses on spreading awareness about rare diseases, including Constitutional Mismatch Repair Deficiency (CCMRD), and supporting affected families.

Expressing heartfelt gratitude, Diya acknowledges Guru Sheela, her family, and friends for their unwavering support, marking this significant phase of her dance journey.

Shishya - Diya Niranjan