Dedication, Grace, and Tradition: Inside Northern Virginia’s Leading Indian Classical Dance School

“Dance is the hidden language of the soul” – this philosophy resonates deeply at Shreekala Peforming Arts in Northern Virginia where dance is more than just movement—it’s a bridge between cultures and generations. Under the passionate guidance of founder Krutika Hiremath Pillay, the school has become a beacon for classical Indian dance, attracting students from all over the region. Embracing the motto ‘Teaching the Timeless Art of Bharatanatyam, Where Dedication Meets the Soul of Dance,’ she is introducing this ancient classical dance form to a new generation of dancers, while fostering cultural connections through the power of dance.

“Dance truly connects you with people around you, to communities,” Krutika reflects. Her journey from Pune, India, to becoming a respected dance instructor in the U.S. exemplifies how art can transcend boundaries and bring people together. She reminisces, “When I came to this country where everything was so new, my art made it easy for me to connect with everyone.”

The name “Shreekala” itself carries deep meaning, with “Shree” symbolizing divine grace and “Kala” representing art, together embodying a philosophy that shapes her teaching: dance as a sacred, elegant art form that enriches both the performer and the audience. This philosophy has attracted students from across Northern Virginia, with dancers coming from Ashburn, South Riding, Fairfax, and Alexandria to study under her guidance.

What sets Shreekala Performing Arts apart is Krutika’s commitment to personalized instruction. Unlike larger schools that may pack dozens of students into each class, she deliberately maintains small class sizes to ensure each student receives individual attention. “I need to take the time to focus on each of their positions, their movements,” she explains. “Having that strong foundation at the beginning makes them a fine artist.”

Her dedication extends beyond the classroom. Students can reach out to her anytime they have questions or need guidance with their practice. “It doesn’t matter if it’s after the one-hour class,” she says. “If they’re practicing at home and get stuck, they can drop me a message. Whatever help I’m able to give them, I’ll be there.”

With over 17 years of teaching experience spanning multiple states including Maryland, Florida, and Colorado before settling in Virginia, Krutika brings both expertise and innovation to her classes. She holds a degree in Bharatanatyam Dance from the Bhartitya Nrithya Santhan and also a Master’s degree in Business from the University of Pune. She has always made time for dance and has choreographed for numerous prestigious programs including Shakti, Anoka Bharat, and Utsav.

While maintaining the traditional elements of Bharatanatyam, she incorporates modern techniques to engage today’s dynamic, curious students. “Today’s students are different,” she explains. “They engage in more question-answer and hands-on experience. While keeping the traditional methods intact, I give them just a touch of new techniques to keep them engaged.”

The school offers more than just classical dance training. Krutika offers a variety of services, including artistic workshops, Bollywood dance choreography, fashion choreography, and wedding dance routines. The school maintains prestigious affiliations with the International Dance Council CID (a constituent of UNESCO), Gandharva, and LACE, ensuring students have access to prestigious credentials and recognition in the world of classical dance. Her students have also performed at the National Cherry Blossom Festival, International Cultural Night Herndon, Fiesta DC, among others.

“It’s amazing how you can dance and share the joy of dancing and pass it on to people who are interested just like I am,” Krutika says, describing what drove her to establish her school. What began with just three or four students has grown to a thriving community of over 40 regular dancers, many of whom start at age five and continue through their teens.

When she’s not teaching dance, Krutika enjoys baking unique cakes and cookies, bringing the same creativity to her kitchen that she brings to her dance studio. She lives with her husband and their son, teaching from both her home studio and locations in Herndon and Chantilly to accommodate her growing student base.

For those considering dance lessons for themselves or their children, Krutika emphasizes the importance of finding an instructor who shows genuine dedication and interest in their students’ progress. At Shreekala Performing Arts, that dedication is evident in every carefully choreographed step and every student’s journey from first position to final bow.

To learn more about Shreekala Performing Arts, visit ShreekalaDance.com or find them on Facebook as Shreekala Performing Arts. You can also view Krutika’s confectionery creations on Instagram at Tasteful Treats.

 

Website: shreekaladance.com

Facebook: Shreekala Performing Arts

Instagram: @shreekala.dance