Question 1

Can I really learn Bharatanatyam or Mohiniyattam online?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and thousands of students now do. Classes are live over video, never pre-recorded, so your teacher watches you dance and corrects you in the moment. You need a stable connection and about two metres of clear floor.

Question 2

I live in the USA, UK, Canada or the Middle East. Will the timings work?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We teach students across all of those, and classes are booked around your time zone rather than ours. Most families abroad settle on a weekend morning or a weekday evening their time.

Question 3

How many classes are there in a month, and how long is each one?

Accepted Answer

Four classes a month, an hour each. Some months run to five weeks. Those months still have four classes, and the fee stays the same, so nothing changes for you.

Question 4

I have never danced before. Is that a problem?

Accepted Answer

No. Most of our students start knowing nothing at all, and the first classes are built for exactly that. You begin with basic posture and the first adavus, and nobody is rushed.

Question 5

What age should a child start?

Accepted Answer

Around five is the usual starting point, once a child can hold attention for an hour. Teenagers and adults are just as welcome, and adult beginners are common in the online batches.

Question 6

Which of the three forms should I choose?

Accepted Answer

Bharatanatyam is the most geometric and rhythmic, and the most common first choice. Mohiniyattam is slower and softer, built on control and expression. Kuchipudi is the most theatrical, with quicker footwork and more storytelling. If you are unsure, say so in your enquiry and we will talk it through.

Question 7

Who actually teaches the classes?

Accepted Answer

Arunima Raj teaches every class herself. She holds an MA in Bharatanatyam from Kannur University and a Diploma in Bharatanatyam. There are no assistant teachers.

Question 8

What language are classes taught in?

Accepted Answer

English or Malayalam, whichever suits your family. Many of our students abroad are Malayali children who follow along more easily in Malayalam at home.

Question 9

Will I get a recording of the class?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if you ask for one. A video of what was taught that session is shared afterwards, so you have something to practise against during the week. Most students ask, and most get it.

Question 10

Is it only practical, or is theory taught too?

Accepted Answer

Theory is part of it. Bharatanatyam students learn the grammar and background of the form alongside the practice, not only the movements.

Question 11

Do you offer a diploma or certificate?

Accepted Answer

A diploma course is offered in Bharatanatyam. Mohiniyattam, Kuchipudi and the other forms are taught as regular classes rather than as certificate courses.

Question 12

Do you teach in person as well, or only online?

Accepted Answer

Both. The same classes are taught face to face at the institute in Kerala, in small groups, by the same teacher and to the same syllabus. The institute is listed on Google Maps, and we can send timings over WhatsApp.

Question 13

How do I join a class?

Accepted Answer

Send your name and number through the form on this page, or message us on WhatsApp. We usually reply within a few hours to talk through timings and which form suits you.

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