Mohiniyattam Training

Foundational & Technique-Oriented Modules

  • Adavus – Foundational steps and body alignment
  • Hastas – Soft hand gestures and classical mudras
  • Abhinaya – Lasya-oriented expressions and emotive storytelling
  • Rasa Bhava – Cultivating emotional depth and subtle expression

Dance Items (Repertoire)

  • Cholkettu
  • Jatiswaram
  • Varnam
  • Padam
  • Shlokam
  • Saptam

Bharatanatyam Training

Bharatanatyam at Sree Dakshina Mookambika Dance Academy is taught as a holistic classical system that unites body, mind, rhythm, emotion, and devotion. The training follows a traditional guru–shishya approach, ensuring that students not only learn movements but also understand the philosophy, discipline, and cultural depth behind the art form.

Strong Foundations in Technique

Training begins with a strong technical base, where students are carefully guided through:

  • Adavus – Systematic foundational steps focusing on araimandi, posture, balance, coordination, and rhythmic accuracy
  • Body Conditioning – Exercises to build stamina, flexibility, strength, and control essential for Bharatanatyam
  • Movement Precision – Emphasis on clean lines, clarity of footwork, and synchronized upper and lower body movements

Great importance is given to correct alignment and gradual progression, allowing students to develop confidence without strain.

Classical Repertoire Training

As students advance, they are introduced to the structured Bharatanatyam repertoire, taught with attention to authenticity and artistic integrity:

  • Alarippu
  • Jatiswaram
  • Shabdam
  • Varnam
  • Padam
  • Keerthanam
  • Tillana

Nattuvangam Training

A unique strength of SDM Dance Academy is its structured Nattuvangam training. Nattuvangam, the rhythmic and musical backbone of dance, is taught with clarity and depth, helping students understand the inseparable connection between dance, rhythm, and music.
The training includes:
Basic and advanced tala structures used in Bharatanatyam
Recitation of theermanams, sollukattus, and jathis
Understanding laya (tempo) and rhythmic variations

Performance Readiness & Stage Exposure

Students receive guidance in:

  • Stage orientation and spatial awareness
  • Costume, make-up, and traditional presentation
  • Building confidence, discipline, and presence on stage
  • Preparing for examinations, performances, and Arangettam
  • The opportunity to perform in SDM academy events

Through rehearsals and performance opportunities, students learn to dance with confidence, grace, and composure.

Nurturing the Individual Dancer

At SDM Dance Academy, Bharatanatyam training is not rushed. Each student is nurtured according to their pace and ability, ensuring:

  • Steady artistic growth
  • Emotional and physical well-being
  • Respect for tradition while allowing individual expression

Dance here is not merely a performing art, but a discipline of life, instilling focus, humility, devotion, and a lifelong connection to classical culture.