The Guru - Smt. Sheela Ramanath

Sheela Ramanath was initiated into Bharatanatyam by Guru. Sridevi Thirumalai. After being under her guidance for 10 years, Sheela's keen interest and aptitude in Bharatanatyam led her to Guru. B Bhanumati, the Director of Nrityakalamandiram. Sheela was among the few chosen to be in the renowned troupe Bharatanjali. Founded by her teacher, Guru Bhanumati, this troupe pioneered group choreography in Bharatanatyam. The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) awarded Bharatanjali the recognition of "Best Bharatanatyam Dance Troupe ''. As part of Bharatanjali and as a soloist, Sheela performed extensively throughout India, the UK and the USA. Learning from the virtuosos at specialized workshops allowed her to delve deeper into the nuances of the art form. The interaction with master artists and fellow artists during her formative years spurred Sheela's creativity.  She explores the musicality in dance and the dance in music. Her choreographies celebrate their glorious union. Sheela is deeply rooted in the tradition of the art form, yet continually evolving. She is constantly pushing the limits of her creativity. Although always aiming at perfection, she believes that the true spirit of dance is not limited to it. One must go beyond mere grammar to savor each dancing moment. Sheela's choreographic repertoire includes individual and group features. Her eloquence awards her the ease of adapting to dancers of every level.

 

Sheela is an empanelled artist of Fairfax County's Creative Arts Program. Sheela is an affiliate member of the Imperial Society of teachers of dancing, London, UK.

 

Sheela is a member of Indian Dance Educators' Association, a non-profit organization that promotes Indian Classical Art forms. She has served on the panel of judges for numerous competitions including the IDEA competition, Tu Bhi Nachle at George Mason Univ among others. Sheela has completed Masters Degree in Bharatanatyam with distinction. 

 

Sheela has choreographed dance productions to raise funds for numerous charitable organizations.

 

Many students of Kalavaridhi have completed their Arangetrams (Solo Dance Debut) under Sheela's able guidance and tutelage.