India: Hemavathi Sharma

Hema Sharma is a native of Chennai, India, where she started dancing (Bharathanatyam) at the age of 8 under the tutelage of Kancheepuram Gnaprakasam. She is also well-versed in other Indian dance forms such as Kuchipudi, Mohini Attam, Kathak, and folk dances. She holds the titles of Natyaratna and Natyakalaratna. She has extensive training and experience working with well renowned artists, like Padmashri Adyar K. Lakshman and the Dhananjayans. She made her public debut in 1963 and has performed at several venues in India and the U.S.A.

She also conducts lecture demonstrations and workshops in public schools and colleges. Hema Sharma has been Ethnic Commissioner representing India on the Mayor’s Ethnic Enrichment Commission for 9 years and especially enjoys teaching younger generations about Indian culture. She is currently artistic director of Nritya. The school has expanded to currently include branches in Emporia, Topeka, & Wichita, KS and Ames & Des Moines, IA