Classical arts to grace the prestigious stage
The Abhaya Bravery Award 2025 ceremony is set to be enriched by a captivating classical dance performance by the artists of Natya Kala Vidyalaya (NKV). This renowned performing arts institution, led by the esteemed couple Mrs. Vithya Arasu and Mr. Shamitha Hettige, will showcase their artistry on 7th March 2025 at Alliance de Francais Auditorium in Bangalore.
About Natya Kala Vidyalaya
Natya Kala Vidyalaya is based in Pondicherry and Colombo and is committed to preserving and promoting traditional dance forms. The institution offers training in Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Bharatanrithyam, and Kandyan dance, both in-person and online. Its Marga Nritta Karanas course, in collaboration with Indira Performing Arts, Germany, has made Natya Sastra studies accessible worldwide. The school is known for promoting classical arts through performances, outreach programmes, and workshops.
Vithya Arasu – The visionary behind NKV
Vithya Arasu, a Bharatanatyam and Odissi performer with a Master’s degree in Fine Arts, has trained under legendary gurus like Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam, Dr. Gayathri Kannan, Uma Sriram, Kanchana, Surupa Sen, and Bijayini Satpathy. Her artistic journey continues under Rukmini Vyas Dwivedi for Odissi and Guru Shamitha Hettige for Kandyan dance.
Known for her distinct movement vocabulary and exploration of cultural identity through classical forms, Vithya was honoured with the “Yuva Kala Bharathi” award by Bharat Kalachar in December 2022.
The performers representing NKV
Accompanying Vithya Arasu on this prestigious stage will be her talented disciples, who bring their dedication and passion for classical dance:
- Divya Meenatchi – A voice artist and founder of The_Artpuram, she trains in Odissi and Karanas under Vithya Arasu.
- Abinaya – A Master’s degree holder in Commerce, she is pursuing a professional course alongside her training in Bharatanatyam, Natya Sastra, and Odissi.
- Nivetha Vijay – A dance teacher, mehendi artist, and founder of Sri Kalaivani Natyalaya, she specialises in Bharatanrithyam, Odissi, and Karanas under Vithya’s guidance.
- Sharath – Having commenced his Odissi training online during the pandemic in 2020, Sharath’s dance journey has been transformative and healing, and he continues to refine his craft under Vithya Arasu.
A celebration of culture and resilience
The upcoming performance will bring together Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Bharatanrithyam, and Kandyan dance forms, reflecting NKV’s commitment to preserving classical traditions while infusing modern interpretations. Their presentation at the Abhaya Bravery Award ceremony will pay homage to courage, resilience, and the spirit of empowerment.
Art as empowerment
Natya Kala Vidyalaya’s participation in this prestigious event highlights the transformative power of art. Under Vithya Arasu and Shamitha Hettige’s leadership, NKV has built a nurturing space for artists to explore their creativity, embrace their cultural heritage, and find empowerment through dance.
The anticipated performance on 7th March 2025 is expected to be a moving tribute to both the brave awardees and the timeless beauty of classical dance.
Hip-hop performance to honour Abhaya Bravery Award winners
A special hip-hop dance performance will take place as part of the Abhaya Bravery Award ceremony, featuring professional dancers Neha Annie Biju and Sasha Elizabeth Biju.
Dancers with a passion for excellence
Neha Annie Biju, a Bangalore-based dancer, has been training in multiple dance styles since the age of four. She was mentored by the One Move Crew for 12 years and has represented India at the Dance World Cup in Europe, securing a silver medal. She also clinched a gold at the Indian International Groove Fest in Thailand. Neha has previously taught dance and is currently pursuing a degree in Psychology and English Literature at Christ (Deemed to be) University. She is a member of ‘The Butterfly Effect’ dance team and aspires to integrate dance with psychology in expressive arts and movement therapy.
Sasha Elizabeth Biju, also a professional dancer, was part of the One Move Crew that won gold at the 2024 All Dance Europe competition in Portugal. She has performed for charitable causes, including a performance for thalassemia patients at St. John’s Hospital. Trained in styles like hip-hop, Bollywood, and contemporary since childhood, Sasha is a versatile artist who also pursues singing, painting, basketball, and shooting.
A tribute through dance
The hip-hop performance at the Abhaya Bravery Award ceremony will celebrate the achievements of courageous individuals while showcasing the talent and dedication of these young dancers.