About Guru


    Mrs. Vijayalakshmi Shetty-Ahuja is a leading Indian Classical Dance Choreographer and teacher in the US. She established Natraj Dance Academy in 1983. The academy soon grew rapidly in strength and has become one of the largest Indian classical dance academy's in the Chicagoland area. Students of Natraj Dance Academy recieve sound training in the practice and theory of Bharatanatyam. After mastering the Bharatanatyam style, students are taught other classical dance styles like Kuchipudi, Mohiniattam and Odissi.

    Vijayalakshmi began her initial training in Bharata Natyam at the age of six from Guru P.G. Chellapa of Chennai. She also received advanced training from Uma Dandayadapani Pillai, daughter of the late K. N. Danayudhapani Pillai, considered as one of the greatest Bharatanatyam dance choreograpers of all times. She received training in Kuchipudi from Dr. Vempati Chinna Satyam, one of the greatest Kuchipudi masters of all times. Vijayalakshmi also received training in Mohiniattam from Guru P.G. Chellapa. She has performed internationally and received numerous awards. She teaches and choreographs dances in Bharata Natyam, Kuchipudi, Mohini Attam and Odissi styles of dancing. With over 24 years of teaching experience, she has taught several thousand students in the chicagoland area. She is dedicated to promoting classical Indian dance in keeping with the strict traditions of this ancient art.


Copyright 2005-2007 : Natraj Dance Academy, USA