Our Instructors
Aparna Manu
Aparna is an avid dancer, who has been learning the art form for 15 years from Shanti Kala Nikketan’s director, Smt. Sunita Menghanaani. She has voyaged through her dance journey across several life stages — from completing her schooling in Chennai, to earning her undergraduate degree at Ashoka University in, to currently pursuing a Master’s in Psychology at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai. She is enthusiastic not only in learning the art of Bharatanatyam, but in carrying over the teachings she has received from her Guru to the next generation. She hopes to continue learning, thriving and growing over the years.
Nandhini
Nandhini, a talented Bharatanatyam dancer and teacher from Chennai. Beginning her dance journey at the age of 8, her passion for Bharatanatyam evolved into a dedicated ambition. She trained under Guru Sri. Mohanan (Kalakshetra) to become a professional artist.
Nandhini holds a First Class diploma from Rukmini Devi College of Fine Arts, Kalakshetra, and has recently completed her master's degree in Bharatanatyam from Madras University. She has actively participated in numerous state-level projects, showcasing her dedication and skill.
Under the continued mentorship of her guru, Smt Vidhya Girish, Nandhini has further honed her expertise in the art form. She is now a valued tutor at Shanthi Kala Niketan, where she shares her passion and knowledge with all the students.
Nanditha S R
A dedicated Bharatanatyam dancer and teacher from Palakkad, Kerala. A hardworking and passionate artist, she has gained in-depth knowledge and experience in the field of classical dance. Her journey began in childhood under the guidance of her guru, Smt. Saritha (Kalakshetra).
She excelled in her early training, securing high marks in the BSS Diploma in Naatyapoorna (Lower Level) from BSS Cultural Mission, Dharshan School of Music, Tharekkad, Palakkad. She went on to graduate with First Class in Diploma in Bharatanatyam from Rukmini Devi College of Fine Arts, Kalakshetra Foundation, Chennai.
Currently, she is pursuing her Master’s degree in Bharatanatyam at The Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Music and Fine Arts University, while also serving as a tutor at Shanthi Kala Niketan, sharing her knowledge and passion with the next generation of dancers.
Tejaswi J
Tejaswi J, a dedicated Bharatanatyam dancer, practitioner, and teacher based in Chennai. Tejaswi embarked on her dance journey in her late teens, driven by a profound interest in Bharatanatyam. Starting from scratch, her passion and commitment to the art form have fueled her desire to continuously learn and grow.
Tejaswi's dedication to Bharatanatyam is reflected in her academic achievements. She graduated with First Class from the four-year Diploma Course at Rukmini Devi College of Fine Arts, Kalakshetra Foundation, and is currently pursuing her master's degree in Bharatanatyam. Under the guidance of her guru, Smt Vidya Girish, she continues to refine her skills.
Tejaswi is now a valued tutor at Shanthi Kala Niketan, where she is happy to share her knowledge and passion for Bharatanatyam with all the students.
Sreeshna Prasad
Sreeshna, a Bharatanatyam dancer and teacher from Malappuram, Kerala. She began learning the art form in childhood and has continued to pursue it with dedication and passion.
​
Sreeshna holds a Diploma in Bharatanatyam with First Class from Kalakshetra Foundation, Chennai, and a Master’s degree in Bharatanatyam from Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Music and Fine Arts University. She continues her training and artistic growth under the guidance of her gurus, Ranjith and Vijna.
​
Sreeshna is now a valued tutor at Shanthi Kala Niketan, where she is happy to share her knowledge and passion for Bharatanatyam with all the students.