Founder & Artistic Director

Aler Krishnan

Dancer · Teacher · Nattuvanar · Choreographer

For Aler Krishnan, Bharatanatyam is a lifelong practice of learning, expression, and connection. As Founder and Artistic Director of Abinaya Arts Academy in San Diego, she has guided generations of students since 1994, helping them build a strong foundation in classical dance and discover their own expressive voice.

Rooted in Tradition

Aler began her training in the Pandanallur tradition under Guru Smt. Indra Rajan and continued her studies under Vidwan Pandanallur B. Srinivasa Pillai. She pursued advanced training in abhinaya—the art of expression—under Smt. Priyadarsini Govind. Her mentors also include Smt. Bragha Bessell and Natyacharya Sri A. Lakshman.

She received a Government of India scholarship to study nattuvangam, the art of conducting dance through rhythmic recitation and cymbals, and undertook dance-teacher training under Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam.

The Performer

Since her debut in 1983, Aler’s artistic journey has encompassed performance, choreography, teaching, and nattuvangam. With sponsorship from the Sangeet Natak Akademi, she performed in cultural exchange programs across India. A graded Doordarshan artiste, she has also appeared in television programs in India.

Her creative work explores the relationship between classical dance and lived experience, with productions addressing themes of nonviolence, women’s empowerment, and motherhood.

A Life in the Arts

Aler founded Abinaya Arts Academy in 1994 with a commitment to sharing Bharatanatyam with the San Diego community. Her teaching brings together disciplined practice, musical understanding, and expressive depth. Through classes, workshops, and performances, students develop their artistry and a lasting relationship with dance—one that often continues well beyond their arangetram.

Her commitment to continued artistic learning also led her to co-found Navadarshana with renowned Bharatanatyam dancer Smt. Priyadarsini Govind. She serves on the boards of the Indian Fine Arts Academy of San Diego and Acheve Foundation, extending her involvement in the arts and community engagement.

Alongside her arts career, Aler holds a master’s degree in Mathematics from Anna University and an MBA from the University of Texas at Austin.

Begin Your Dance Journey

Whether you are discovering Bharatanatyam for the first time or returning to an established practice, connect with Abinaya to explore the next step in your learning.