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Bharatanatyam in San Diego since 1994
Discover a community where dance becomes a lifelong journey of learning, expression, and belonging.
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The academy
Founded in 1994 in San Diego, Abinaya Arts Academy is dedicated to teaching and presenting Bharatanatyam under the guidance of Founder and Artistic Director Aler Krishnan.
The academy nurtures students across generations, developing their technique, expression, musical understanding, and appreciation of the cultural traditions that shape the art form.
More about the academyLearning
Abinaya emphasizes group-based learning, allowing students to learn from one another as well as from their own corrections. Students of similar capabilities learn together, creating a positive environment for growth.
Through performances, workshops, and collaborative productions, students deepen their artistic practice and connect with the community. Many remain actively involved well beyond their arangetram, making dance a lasting part of their lives.
More about learning
Founder & Artistic Director
Aler Krishnan is a Bharatanatyam dancer, teacher, nattuvanar, and choreographer. She co-founded Navadarshana with the illustrious Bharatanatyam dancer Smt. Priyadarsini Govind.
She also serves on the boards of the Indian Fine Arts Academy of San Diego and Acheve Foundation, supporting the arts and community engagement.
More about founder & artistic directorProductions
Abinaya’s artistic work extends beyond classroom training into original productions, repertory and collaborative performance.
Works include Jagath Sthitam — The Cosmic Axis, Anādi — The Eternal Flow, Ahimsa and Shakti.
More about productionsConnect with Abinaya
For class inquiries, performances and collaborations,
we would love to hear from you.