Tanima Mahadevan is a special human! She is an accomplished Bharatanatyam dancer and tutor running our classical fusion programme. She comes from a family of famous Bharatanatyam dancers and trained in mystical India under the tutelage of gurus from the Kerala Kalamandalam. She has years of experience as a tutor and choreographer and has been a part of the AN family for 3 years!
We talk to Tanima, about her love for dance, teaching and her journey!
How did you come to be a part of the Aaja Nachle family?
When I decided to migrate to NZ, I was trying to find a way to continue dancing. I saw that Aaja Nachle had a big presence in the community and dance scene here so I got in touch. I have been in contact with the school since 2018 and began teaching in 2019.
What makes Aaja Nachle special for you?
Aaja Nachle gives me the opportunity to nurture some beautiful students. I am so happy to be able to help them transform into fine dancers. It is amazing to see the children and students get so excited for the shows we organise for them. Every weekend is an exciting and fun experience for me.
Tell us about a special moment as a teacher
Hmmm, thats hard! Every day is a special moment as a teacher. Choreographing with my students - watching them laugh and enjoy it- it's all special. But what I remember most is when the audience appreciated the choreography and the performance of my students during the end of the year show. I've had some personal messages and in person wishes. Makes me proud as a teacher.
What life lessons have you gained through dance?
The most important life lessons I have learnt from dance is that the more we try, the better we get. I have felt dance brings a natural state of discipline and determination in ones life. These skills allow us to conquer anything we put our minds to.
Has dance always been a big part of your life?
Dance has never been a seperate entity in my life - its a part of me and my identity. Coming from a family of dancers, I have always had someone practicing dance in the house, someone performing in the weekend or after school or someone teaching dance from home! My house would be bustling with dancers as my family runs a dance school in India. My Aunty is the Dean at the Kerala Kalamandalam (acclaimed dance university in India). Dance has been something I have been doing since the day I started walking!
Why teach at Aaja Nachle?
Aaja Nachle gives me the freedom to experiment with new ideas and teach some beautiful, talented students. It gives me the chance to be a part of a wide variety of projects. It's all about exploring and getting better at your craft 🤗
Come and visit Tanima at our classes! She covers our classical fusion programme and welcomes anyone and everyone to experience the beautiful Bharatanatyam style, applied to modern music and themes!