Vaishnavi’s journey is a captivating blend of academic excellence and artistic expression—a harmonious tale of intellect, discipline, and unwavering passion. From the peaceful village of Morjim, Goa, to the spotlight of India’s prestigious cultural and academic institutions, her path has been shaped by a deep-rooted love for learning and a commitment to classical dance.
Growing up in a family where dedication to work was paramount, Vaishnavi’s parents serve in the Agriculture Department of the Government of Goa, while her younger brother is a successful pharmacist. As the eldest child, she was instilled with a sense of responsibility and purpose. Her academic journey began at St. Xavier’s School in Siolim and continued at St. Xavier’s College in Mapusa, where she consistently topped her class. Vaishnavi’s love for science led her to pursue a degree in Physics, graduating with an impressive 9.1 CGPA. Her pursuit of knowledge didn’t stop there—she earned the highest marks at the university level during her master’s studies in Environmental Science.
Yet, Vaishnavi’s heart has always been devoted to the arts alongside her academic pursuits. She is a trained classical dancer, having received her diploma and BPA in Bharatnatyam from the esteemed Bharata College of Fine Arts and Culture in Mumbai. Her dance journey, however, was not solely academic—it was deeply influenced by her mentors, including the renowned gurus Dr. Sandhya Purecha, Chairperson of the Sangeet Natak Academy in New Delhi, and Guru Mandira Joshi Tirodkar. Vaishnavi is furthering her expertise by pursuing a master’s in Performing Arts at the same prestigious institution.
Her dance credentials are nothing short of impressive. Vaishnavi’s accolades include the National Balashree Award 2016, presented by the President of India, the Gomata Bal Bhushan Award from the Chief Minister of Goa, the Nakshatra Puraskar, and the Nritya Sadhana Puraskar, among others. She has also been recognized as the Budding Scientist of Goa and represented the state at the National Children’s Science Congress in Bangalore. Additionally, Vaishnavi has made her mark in the media by acting in short films, and music videos, and hosting various programs, further showcasing her versatility.
Looking back, Vaishnavi recalls the early days when her love for performing arts began. “I have always been drawn to the stage,” she shares. “I still remember participating in fancy dress competitions as young as 3 years old.” Her mother first nurtured her artistic inclinations, taught her Bollywood dance moves, and encouraged her to participate in local dance competitions. But it was Vaishnavi’s maternal grandparents who were her true pillars of support, accompanying her to dance classes, workshops, performances, and rehearsals. Their unwavering dedication gave Vaishnavi the confidence to pursue her passion for dance.
Initially enrolled in vocal and dance classes as hobbies, Vaishnavi’s interest in dance soon grew beyond the casual. Televised performances and cultural events sparked a newfound fascination with classical dance, particularly Bharatnatyam. She began training under Reema Gadkari in Pernem, Goa, and, over time, her passion for the art form became undeniable. Her dedication led her to the Bharata College of Fine Arts and Culture in Mumbai, where she studied Bharatnatyam under the guidance of Dr. Purecha and Guru Mandira Joshi, who helped shape her understanding of the dance form’s deeper cultural significance.
Though her journey was not without challenges, Vaishnavi credits much of her success to the invaluable teachings of her gurus. “When I first began, I was unaware of the complexities and depth of Bharatnatyam. It was only after learning from Dr. Purecha that I began to understand how the practice and theory of dance are deeply interconnected,” Vaishnavi explains. The emphasis on Shastra (the theory behind the movements) and Sampaday (the practical application) resonated deeply with her, transforming her approach to dance from merely a performance art to a profound spiritual experience.
Vaishnavi’s dance journey also saw her encounter obstacles that tested her resolve. “There were moments when I felt fatigued or discouraged, especially when my legs would hurt after hours of practice,” she admits. However, she quickly learned that perseverance was key to overcoming these challenges. “Every dancer faces tough moments, but it’s in those moments that you truly grow,” she reflects.
Another significant turning point in her career came when she had to take a break from dance due to academic pressures. “After my 9th grade, I had to pause my dance lessons temporarily. Ironically, that break fueled an even stronger desire to pursue dance seriously,” she recalls. During this time, Vaishnavi’s encounter with Guru Mandira Joshi proved to be transformative. Her guidance helped Vaishnavi understand the importance of dedication and discipline in mastering the classical dance form.
Bharatnatyam is not for the faint-hearted. The intricate movements, footwork, and expressions require years of practice and immense mental and physical dedication. “Unlike other dance styles, classical dance requires you to work consistently to perfect even the smallest details,” Vaishnavi explains. The journey, though challenging, is incredibly rewarding. The dedication it demands has helped Vaishnavi grow both as an artist and as an individual.
Vaishnavi’s journey into Bharatnatyam also reflects a broader societal challenge—convincing others that pursuing a dance career is just as viable as any other profession. “For a long time, people would discourage me, telling me that dance wasn’t a career,” Vaishnavi shares. Yet, she firmly believes that the struggles are worth it when one takes the stage and pours one’s heart into a performance. “The applause from the audience makes all the hardships worth it,” she says.
Throughout her journey, Vaishnavi has had the privilege of learning from and performing alongside some of the most respected figures in the world of dance. She has participated in workshops with legendary gurus such as Dhananjayans, Dr. Swathi Daithankar, Guru Keda Gurav, and Kimaya More. These workshops, along with her performances at prestigious events like the National Cashew Seminar, Save Soil campaign, Geetamrutam by Sanskrit Bharati, and the Gati Festival, have enriched her understanding of the dance form and its place in modern culture.
For Vaishnavi, dance is not just a medium of self-expression but a way to connect with others. “One of the most fulfilling aspects of my journey has been teaching,” she says. Today, she is an accomplished teacher at the Natyaarambh School of Art, where she mentors over 80 students across multiple locations, including Morjim, Pernem, and Siolim. “What began as a desire to master the art of Bharatnatyam has evolved into a passion for passing on my knowledge to the next generation,” she reflects. Vaishnavi views dance as a way to preserve and promote Indian culture, especially in today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world.
She believes that dance can serve as a remedy for the distractions of modern life. “Rather than blaming children for spending too much time on their phones, we can channel their energy into something creative, like dance. It not only promotes physical health but also nurtures emotional and spiritual growth,” Vaishnavi suggests. She hopes that, through dance, she can instill a deeper appreciation for Indian arts and values in her students.
Vaishnavi’s advice for aspiring dancers is simple yet profound: “Dedicate yourself fully to the art form. Be prepared to invest time, energy, and emotional resilience. The road will be difficult, but with perseverance, you can create a meaningful and fulfilling future.” She also emphasizes the importance of character, advising young dancers to remain grounded and humble in their pursuit of excellence. “Fly high, but always stay grounded,” she says, underscoring the importance of balancing ambition with humility.
For Vaishnavi, dance is not just an art form—it’s a way of life. It’s a journey of constant learning, self-discovery, and, ultimately, creating a meaningful impact on the lives of others.
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