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A Life Devoted to Bharatanatyam
Roja Kannan
Roja Kannan stands as one of the most outstanding exponents of Bharatanatyam from Chennai, India, with a distinguished career spanning over five decades. Renowned for her pristine style and expressive depth, she has captivated audiences through hundreds of performances and lecture demonstrations across India and abroad.
38+ Year Experience
500+ Students
Global Performances
“Service of Humanity through fine Arts” – Roja Kannan
Roja Kannan, Honouring a Legacy of Excellence in Bharatanatyam
For her sustained, brilliant work and versatility, Roja has been bestowed with several prestigious Awards and Recognitions from various Cultural organisations. Among the highest recognitions is the Kalaimamani Award, conferred by the Tamil Nadu Government.
The Distinctive Dance Style and Performative
Brilliance of Roja Kannan
Roja Kannan’s Bharatanatyam style is a harmonious blend of technical precision and expressive depth, reflecting the dual influence of her gurus. Her mastery over Nritta (pure dance) is evident in her crisp footwork, geometric movements and impeccable rhythm, while her Abhinaya (expressive storytelling) brings emotional resonance and narrative richness to each performance. Roja’s stage presence is marked by grace, control and a deep spiritual connection to the art form. Whether performing a traditional varnam or an expressive padam, her ability to seamlessly merge form with feeling has made her a distinguished figure in the Bharatanatyam world.
The Guiding Lights
Gurus Who Shaped
Roja Kannan’s Bharatanatyam Journey
Roja Kannan’s Bharatanatyam journey has been shaped by two legendary Gurus. She trained under Padmashri Sri Adyar K. Lakshman, known for his mastery of the Kalakshetra style.
Roja Kannan’s Enduring Love for Dance and the Birth of
Bharatha Natyalaya
Her passion for Bharatanatyam led Roja Kannan to establish Bharatha Natyalaya in 1987. The dance school quickly became a vibrant hub for aspiring dancers, where tradition was upheld with discipline, dedication and artistic integrity.
- Comprehensive curriculum covering all aspects of Bharatanatyam
- Regular performance opportunities and cultural immersion
- Integration of theory and history with practical training
With esteemed guests Smt Shantha & Shri. V.P.Dhananjayan , Smt. Savithri Jagannatha Rao & Smt. Ranganayaki Jayaraman at the 30th Anniversary celebration of Bharatha Natyalaya in 2017.
Student Spotlights
The true measure of a guru’s legacy lies in the accomplishments of their students.
Upcoming Special Programs
Nrithya Perunjothi Award from ABHAI at 5.30PM
Smt Roja Kannan receives the ” Nrithya Perunjothi” Award from ABHAI ( Association of Bharatanatyam Artistes of India) at 5.30pm. At Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan , Mylapore.
Krishna - Group program at 6:00 PM
Group program titled Krishna- The Most Benevolent One. At Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Mylapore, 6pm.
Solo performance - Kumari Nivedha at 7.30PM
Solo performance by Kumari Nivedha Harish, under the auspices of Natyarangam- at Narada Gana Sabha , ( mini hall) 7.30pm.
Roja Kannan, A Visual Symphony of Dance
Experience the mesmerising grace of Roja Kannan as she weaves stories through Bharatanatyam, blending tradition with expressive brilliance. A true visual treat that celebrates the timeless beauty of classical Indian dance.