About Arunodhaya Dance Academy Inc.
Arunodhaya Dance Academy offers structured training in Bharatanatyam — a classical movement tradition originating in South India. Rooted in ancient aesthetic philosophy, this art form develops physical strength, rhythmic intelligence, expressive clarity, and disciplined focus. At Arunodhaya, Bharatanatyam is taught as a path of human development — cultivating coordination, emotional awareness, resilience, and artistic integrity. Students of all backgrounds are welcome to study this classical system with seriousness and respect.
Founders & Artistic Directors
Mrs. Keetha Sellathurai and Mrs. Sashikala Sellathurai are the Founders and Artistic Directors of Arunodhaya.The sisters began their Bharatanatyam journey in Kurumbasiddy, Sri Lanka, under the guidance of Sri Thommakutti and Smt. Thayanithi Mohan. Their early training laid a strong foundation rooted in discipline, tradition, and devotion to the art form.
After relocating to Canada in 1986, they continued their studies under Smt. Sivasakthy Soundaranathan, a distinguished Kalakshetra alumna. In 1992, both sisters successfully completed their Bharatanatyam Arangetram in Toronto, Canada. In 1997, they further deepened their training in India under Sri C. S. Thomas and Smt. Vasundara Thomas, esteemed Kalakshetra instructors and direct disciples of Smt. Rukmini Devi Arundale. This advanced mentorship strengthened their alignment with the Kalakshetra bani and reinforced their commitment to artistic integrity.
In 2003, Mrs. Sashikala Sellathurai successfully completed Kalabharathi’s Bharatanatyam Teacher Training Summer Residency in Montreal, further refining her pedagogical approach. 2010, Mrs. Keetha Sellathurai founded Arunodhaya in Stamford, Connecticut, further extending her dedication to the preservation and teaching of classical Bharatanatyam. Through decades of performance, teaching, and continued learning, both directors remain deeply committed to nurturing students with authenticity, discipline, and reverence for the classical tradition.
After relocating to Canada in 1986, they continued their studies under Smt. Sivasakthy Soundaranathan, a distinguished Kalakshetra alumna. In 1992, both sisters successfully completed their Bharatanatyam Arangetram in Toronto, Canada. In 1997, they further deepened their training in India under Sri C. S. Thomas and Smt. Vasundara Thomas, esteemed Kalakshetra instructors and direct disciples of Smt. Rukmini Devi Arundale. This advanced mentorship strengthened their alignment with the Kalakshetra bani and reinforced their commitment to artistic integrity.
In 2003, Mrs. Sashikala Sellathurai successfully completed Kalabharathi’s Bharatanatyam Teacher Training Summer Residency in Montreal, further refining her pedagogical approach. 2010, Mrs. Keetha Sellathurai founded Arunodhaya in Stamford, Connecticut, further extending her dedication to the preservation and teaching of classical Bharatanatyam. Through decades of performance, teaching, and continued learning, both directors remain deeply committed to nurturing students with authenticity, discipline, and reverence for the classical tradition.
The Training Pathway
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Bala Pravesha (Ages 4–6)
An introductory level designed to nurture coordination, balance, rhythm awareness, and joyful engagement with classical movement. Students develop foundational body awareness and listening skills while being gently introduced to structured stepping patterns and expressive storytelling in a supportive environment. This stage builds readiness for formal classical training. Level I – Foundation (Prārambha) (Ages 7–12) Students begin structured Bharatanatyam training with emphasis on technical clarity and discipline. Training includes development of Araimandi stability, core Adavu vocabulary, basic Hastas, rhythmic precision, and introductory repertoire. Students cultivate strength, coordination, memory, and focus while establishing consistent practice habits. This level forms the technical base for long-term artistic growth. Level II – Development (Madhyama) (Ages 12–15) Students refine technique and expand their classical repertoire, including Pushpanjali, Alarippu, Jatiswaram, and Kouthuvam. Training deepens in expressive communication (Abhinaya), understanding of emotional range (Navarasas), rhythmic structure, and sustained stamina. Students grow in confidence and interpretive awareness. This stage emphasizes layered coordination and expressive maturity. Level III – Senior (Uttara) (13+ Years) Senior students engage the art at a deeper level, strengthening endurance, precision, and interpretive depth. Training includes advanced repertoire development, Varnam preparation, complex rhythmic layering, and refined expressive study. Emphasis is placed on artistic integrity, performance discipline, and sustained focus. This level prepares students for advanced classical work and long-term commitment to the art form. Pre-Professional Division – Solo Performance Track (Arangetram Preparation) Entry by invitation and formal assessment only. Designed for students who demonstrate sustained dedication and artistic maturity, this division prepares dancers for full-length solo repertoire presentation. Training includes complete Varnam and Thillana execution, advanced Abhinaya interpretation, senior repertoire study (including Padams and Javalis), rhythmic command, and stage endurance. Students also develop leadership through mentorship and increased responsibility within the academy. Advancement into this track reflects readiness and long-term commitment, not age alone. Adult Ladies Batch (18+)A dedicated space for adult learners and returning students.Classes focus on technique, expressive development, repertoire study, and disciplined progression within a supportive environment. Training is adapted for adult bodies while maintaining classical standards and meaningful growth. |
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Performance & Artistic Growth
At Arunodhaya, students are guided not only toward performance, but toward artistic excellence. Through thoughtful assessments, meaningful stage opportunities, and steady progression, students cultivate focus, resilience, confidence, and a deep sense of artistic responsibility. Bharatanatyam is more than performance — it is a lifelong practice of discipline, devotion, and refinement that shapes both the artist and the individual.
Our Guiding Values
- Honoring the traditions of classical Bharatanatyam
- Providing accessible, high-quality training
- Creating a respectful and encouraging learning environment
- Nurturing artists with confidence, character, and cultural awareness
Honoring the Lineage
Bharatanatyam is a living classical tradition shaped by generations of teachers, composers, scholars, and performers who have preserved and refined this art across centuries. At Arunodhaya, we honour this lineage through disciplined training and a commitment to carrying the art forward with integrity and responsibility.
Begin Your Journey with Arunodhaya
Bharatanatyam is more than movement — it is a disciplined and expressive practice that shapes both the artist and the individual. At Arunodhaya Dance Academy, we welcome students who are ready to learn with sincerity, curiosity, and commitment. Whether taking their first steps or continuing their classical training, each student is guided with care, clarity, and high standards. We invite you to connect with us to learn more about our programs and placement process.