Abhinaya Dance Company presents Bharatanatyam, a classical dances nurtured in the temples of South India. Through intricate rhythm, and a unique language of gestures, the dance presents vivid stories from Hindu mythology. Two young dancers from our Junior dance Company will present pieces worshipping the Goddess and seeking her grace. The central piece depicts the graceful yet fierce Goddess Shakti who wields weapons as she destroys the demons representing the evil of the mortal world.

Founded in San Jose in 1980, Abhinaya Dance Company has been educating generations of dancers in the classical art form of Bharatanatyam. The company has been recognized for its innovative performances that present traditional as well as contemporary themes. Abhinaya has been awarded several grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, California Arts Council, Hewlett Foundation, as well as the City of San Jose. 2020 marks Abhinaya's 40th anniversary.

Malavika Walia (Director, Junior Dance Company)
The dancers performing today are members of the junior dance company that was launched as a special initiative of Abhinaya Dance Company's 40th anniversary year. They have studied Bharatanatyam under Mythili Kumar, and other teachers at Abhinaya for over eight years. This year they are undergoing training under Malavika Walia as they learn special group choreography pieces to perform along with the professional dance company. The young dancers are Aditya Romfh and Kirtana Romfh.