Natanam Bala Natya Kendra (R)

Established in 1989 in Shimoga by Dr. Vidwan S. Keshavkumar, Natanam Bala Natya Kendra (R) is a beacon of Indian classical and folk dance. Dr. Keshavkumar, a devoted exponent of the art, has extended the institution’s reach with branches in Bhadravathi, Sagar, and Kadur. Our mission is to promote and educate students in Bharathanatyam, Folk Dance, Fusion Dance, and other artistic forms, preserving the rich heritage of Indian culture.
 

Our Mission

In a time when Western influences overshadow our traditional values, we strive to instill respect for Indian culture, tradition, and the graceful art forms that define our national identity. Bharathanatyam, a symbol of Indian tradition, enhances mental acuity, memory, vision, and physical beauty. Our goal is to raise awareness of this elegant art, offering our students opportunities to perform both nationally and internationally, thereby fostering individual growth and cultural pride.
 

Our Vision

We aim to nurture a deep respect for our nation's culture, elders, and artistic traditions among children. By teaching various dance forms, including Karnataka's famous folk dances like Suggi Kunitha, Lambani, Koravanji, Kolata, and Parisara Nrutya, we encourage students to appreciate and uphold India's cultural heritage.
 

Achievements and Recognition

Natanam Bala Natya Kendra has received numerous accolades, including recognition from Nehru’s National Bal Bhavan, New Delhi. Our students have performed at prestigious events such as the Sahyadri Utsav, Karavali Utsav, Chalukya Utsav, and many more, with over 400 performances across India and beyond. Notably, our students participated in the World Cultural Festival in New Delhi in 2016 and set a Guinness World Record in Tamil Nadu in 2019.
 

Participation and Exchange Programs

We actively organize and participate in cultural exchange programs, both interstate and international, enhancing students’ knowledge and fostering mutual respect. Our students have performed in various states across India and countries like Nepal, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and Dubai.

 

Community Engagement

Our institution provides free dance coaching to government schools and colleges, particularly in underserved areas. Initiatives include programs at Govt Girls High School, Shimoga, and Ashakirana, a school for mentally retarded children. These efforts have been highly appreciated and have significantly benefited the participants.
 

Awards and Honors

Dr. Vidwan S. Keshavkumar’s dedication has been recognized with several prestigious awards, including the Dr. Pandit Puttaraj Krupe Bhushana Yuva Prashasti (2006), Dr. Rajkumar Sadana Ratna Puraskar (2007), Parisara Ratna National Award (2009), and Kala Jeeva Puraskar (2010). Our students’ performances have been lauded at Karnataka Sangha events across Delhi, Bhopal, and Indore.
 

Join Us

Natanam Bala Natya Kendra (R) invites you to be part of our journey to preserve and celebrate India’s cultural heritage through the exquisite art of dance. Together, we can inspire the next generation to appreciate and carry forward our rich traditions.