Train to be a Dancer
Artistic Director
Vijayalakshmi, lovingly known as Viji, is the founder of Thillai, which is a tribute to the great art form of Indian traditional dance, Bharatnatyam. Her legacy is the foundation of her journey, and we are honored to share a glimpse about her.
A Legacy of Music and Dance
Her family heritage traces back to Tanjore, the revered seat of Carnatic music and Bharatanatyam. Her grandfather, Rajagopal Iyer, founded Nritya Kala Kendra in 1978—a hub for performing arts in Chennai. His legacy ignited her artistic flame. Through Thillai, she is helping spread this beautiful spiritual, artistic form to the next generation across the globe.
Guided by Illustrious Gurus
From the tender age of 6, immersed herself in the world of dance and music. Her esteemed Gurus include:
Smt. Malathi Srinivasan
She instilled in me the Kalakshetra style of Bharatanatyam.
Smt. Chandrakala Jaganathan
An immediate disciple of "Padma Shree" Awardee Sri Dhandayuthapani Pillai. Under her guidance, I blossomed as an artist. My Carnatic vocal training came from Guru Vairamangalam Lakshmi Narayanan and Guru Gowri Sankar.
Arrangetram
In 1984, she stepped onto the stage for her arrangetram—a debut performance. Judge Krishnaswamy Reddiar and the renowned Guru Sudharani Raghupathy praised her artistry, fueling my passion. This early recognition and encouragement from such esteemed figures in the world of Bharatanatyam was a significant milestone in her journey, inspiring her to continue her pursuit of excellence in this art form.
Awards and Accolades
Blessed in her journey with all her gurus, and through their blessings, She have been adorned with accolades:
- Iyal Isai Nadaka Mandram Award: Selected by a panel led by "Padma Bhushan" V.P. Dhananjayan for fine arts festivals.
- Brahanatyanjali Award: Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu.
- Chidambaresa Natya Kalaimani” Award: Thillai Natiya Anjali Trust, Chidambaram, TN, India.
- Beyond Borders: Global Performances My dance has graced sabhas, fundraisers, and festivals worldwide:
- Representing Iyal Isai Nadaka Mandram in Madurai, Ranipettai, Karaikudi, and Chennai.
- Sri Thyagaraja Sangeetha Kala Samithi Award: Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh.
- Nritya Kala Shree" Award: 2018 International Dance Festival in Kolkata.
- Shree Bharatha Kalanjali: Honored by the Kingdom of Cambodia in 2023.
- Celebrating Jayasakthi Rajarajeswari's 19th Anniversary in Tanjavur.
- As a Chennai Doordarshan-graded artist, I've enthralled audiences with solo performances.
Her role as an educator is a significant part of my journey. Following the teachings of her gurus, today an educator herself. As Director of Bharatanatyam for Vedic Vidyalay, NJ 2010 -2012, she was committed to nurturing young talents and shaping the future of this art form. Her passion for Bharatanatyam led her to publish "A Treatise on Bharatanatyam Book 1," a comprehensive guide that unravels its origin, history, theory, and intricate illustrations, inspiring the next generation of dancers and scholars. This commitment to education and preserving Bharatanatyam is vital to her journey.
Doctorate in Bharatnatyam
They say a seeker of knowledge knows no bounds. This art has captivated her mind so much that she truly wanted to delve deeper into its essence, leading to her doctorate in Bharatnatyam. This was one of the most fulfilling milestones and helped her underscore the importance of passing this art form to the next generation in its truest form.
Unforgettable Moments
Her journey is a celebration and tribute to this art form, from the sacred precincts of ancient temples to the exhilarating collaborations with world-class artists. We'd like to invite you to join in our endeavor. Let's take this dance form across continents and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Bharatanatyam and provide mental happiness
