Admissions Open • Kilpauk, Chennai
Bharatanatyam Classes in Chennai
Nalinam Nrithyalaya is a Bharatanatyam academy in Kilpauk, Chennai offering disciplined training in technique, rhythm, mudras, abhinaya and stage confidence for children, teens and adults.
20+Years legacy
8Guru-sishya
Founder & artistic director
Smt. Rajalakshmi Roopesh Lakshman (Raji)
Rajalakshmi is the founder and Bharatanatyam teacher guiding students at Nalinam Nrithyalaya in Kilpauk, Chennai.
Disciple of Smt. Sukanya Ravindhar and Smt. Chitra Visweswaran began her Bharatanatyam journey at the age of five and completed her arangetram at age 12. Following her arangetram, Raji continued to hone her artistry under the guidance of Kalaimamani Dr. Lakshmi Ramaswamy until 2013. Since 2014, she has been pursuing her advanced training under esteemed gurus at CAPA.
An accomplished Bharatanatyam artist, she has performed widely in solo, duet, and group presentations and is a regular performer at prominent sabhas during Chennai's renowned Margazhi dance season. She is a recipient of the Best Dancer Award and 1st Prize from VDS Arts Academy and has represented her art across India and abroad.
Alongside her artistic pursuits, Raji is a distinguished Chartered Accountant and Managing Partner of Synergic Services, with over 15 years of experience in management consulting, advising diverse clients across industries. She has been honoured with the "Outstanding Professional Woman" Award for the year 2025 by the South Indian Women Achievers' Forum, an esteemed industry federation.
- 20+ years of teaching experience
- Workshops cultural programs
The institute story
Nurturing tradition.
Inspiring excellence.
Affiliated to Chidambaram Academy of Performing Arts (CAPA)
Founded in 2018, Nalinam Nrithyala is a dedicated institution for Bharatanatyam in Kilpauk, Chennai, nurturing many students in India as well as abroad with a strong emphasis on tradition, discipline, and aesthetic excellence. As an affiliate of CAPA, the institution follows the distinguished bani – Vichitra bani and teaching methodology of Guru Smt. Chitra Visweswaran. The institution is committed to a holistic approach to dance education. Along with rigorous training in Bharatanatyam, students are also guided in carnatic music, body strengthening, and yoga, recognizing that these are integral to developing stamina, alignment, rhythm, and expressive depth in dance.
Over the years, Nalinam Nrithyala has actively contributed to the cultural landscape through annual showcases, dance productions, and participation in various cultural programs and temple festivals. With a vision to preserve and propagate the rich heritage of Bharatanatyam and Vichitra bani, the institution continues to inspire young dancers to pursue the art with sincerity, grace, and devotion with the guidance of its parent institution CAPA.
Our Mission
To provide authentic Bharatanatyam training rooted in the Vichitra bani, foster artistic excellence through holistic learning, and inspire every student to pursue dance with discipline, devotion, humility, and a lifelong commitment to preserving our cultural heritage.
Our Vision
To preserve and propagate the timeless heritage of Bharatanatyam through the Guru–Shishya Parampara, nurturing disciplined, graceful, and accomplished artistes who uphold the rich traditions of Indian classical dance.
Guru-shishya parampara
Guidance that shapes artistry
At Nalinam Nrithyalaya, we are deeply rooted in the timeless Guru–Shishya Parampara, where knowledge is passed down through generations with devotion, discipline, and unwavering respect. We believe that true learning flourishes under the guidance of a single lineage, preserving the authenticity and purity of the art.
As an affiliate of CAPA, our students are trained in the distinguished Vichitra bani of Guru Smt. Chitra Visweswaran. Every lesson is imparted by our Acharya in accordance with the same teaching philosophy, ensuring consistency, authenticity, and fidelity to the tradition. This structured approach allows students to imbibe not only technique and repertoire but also the values, aesthetics, and spirit of the art, carrying forward a rich legacy with sincerity and excellence.
- Personalized Guidance for Every Student
- Step-by-Step Bharatanatyam Training
- Regular Practice & Progress Assessment
- Abhinaya (Expression) & Nritta (Technique) Development
- Stage Performance Preparation
- Arangetram Guidance & Mentorship
Why Choose Nalinam Nrithyalaya?
Where Tradition Inspires Excellence
At Nalinam Nrithyalaya, we don't just teach dance—we preserve a tradition, shape character, and inspire a lifelong journey in Bharatanatyam.
Authentic Guru–Shishya Parampara
Students are trained in the traditional Guru–Shishya lineage, preserving the purity, discipline, and values of Bharatanatyam.
Affiliated to CAPA
We follow the renowned Vichitra bani and teaching methodology of Guru Smt. Chitra Visweswaran, ensuring authentic and structured training.
Personalised Attention
Every student receives individual guidance to develop strong technique, confidence, stage presence, and artistic expression.
Holistic Dance Education
Beyond Bharatanatyam, students are trained in Carnatic music, body conditioning, yoga, and rhythm, creating well-rounded performers.
Abundant Stage Opportunities
Students regularly participate in annual productions, cultural festivals, temple performances, competitions, and prestigious sabhas, building confidence through real performance experience.
Excellence with Discipline
Our focus extends beyond dance movements to cultivating dedication, humility, punctuality, and respect—qualities that define a true artiste.
A Nurturing Learning Environment
We welcome students of all ages and backgrounds, fostering a supportive atmosphere where every learner is encouraged to grow with confidence and joy.
From Student to Artiste
Our goal is not merely to teach Bharatanatyam but to nurture disciplined, knowledgeable, and graceful artistes who carry forward India's rich cultural heritage with pride.
Gallery & performances
A Journey Captured in
Grace.
recital
Annual Day
Upcoming highlights
Performances, festivals, and milestones.
August 12Temple Festival Showcase
September 24Arangetram Gala Evening
Featured performance
Watch the rhythm unfold
✦ Live performance — captured in full glory ✦
Visit us
Find Nalinam
VISIT NALINAM
Where tradition finds its expression.
Nalinam Nrithyalaya
73 B, 3rd Floor, Central Street
Kilpauk Garden Colony
Kilpauk, Chennai - 600010
Tamil Nadu, India
Phone: +91 9884865999
Email: nalinamnrithyala@gmail.com
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Student voices
Trusted by families and
artists alike.
Real stories from our community of dancers, parents, and art lovers
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★★★★★
“Nalinam has transformed my daughter's confidence. The training is rigorous yet deeply nurturing.”
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★★★★★
“Every session is a journey into tradition. I feel rooted and expressive.”
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★★★★★
“The perfect blend of discipline and artistry. The performances are truly world-class.”
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★★★★★
“My daughter found her passion here. Amazing teachers and supportive community.”
"
★★★★★
“The Arangetram preparation was exceptional. Every detail was perfect.”
Frequently asked
Everything you need to
begin.
We teach students from early beginners to adults, with classes tailored for young children, teenagers, and mature learners. Each program supports steady progress in technique and expressive performance.
No prior experience is required. Beginners begin with foundational exercises, while advanced students receive deeper training in abhinaya, rhythm, and stage presence.
Classes are available on weekdays and weekends, with flexible batches for school students and working adults. Contact us to view the current schedule and book your preferred slot.
Reserve your place
Contact Nalinam Nrithyalaya today.
Visit our Bharatanatyam academy in Kilpauk, Chennai for admission guidance, class schedules, and performance preparation.
📍 73 B, 3rd Floor, Central Street, Kilpauk Garden Colony, Kilpauk, Chennai - 600010
📞 +91 9884865999
✉️ nalinamnrithyala@gmail.com