.jpeg/:/rs=h:104,cg:true,m/qt=q:100/ll)
Who We Are
Shruthi UK, an artist-led South Asian arts organization, was established in 2005 in Leeds, West Yorkshire. Since its inception, the organization has been dedicated to enhancing the exposure and recognition of rich Indian culture through music and dance, fostering communication, learning, and the exchange of information. Primarily serving children and young adults across diverse communities in the West Midlands, ShruthiUK offers comprehensive training in South Indian classical dance and music. Additionally, the organization extends its focus to individuals with disabilities, facilitating their introduction to Indian classical dancing in a fun and enjoyable manner.
Values
Empowerment – Help to educate and learn different cultures – Collaboration- Teamwork- Education- Positive attitude- Mutual respect- Creativity and integrity
Mission
Our Mission
At ShruthiUK Dance Company, we are dedicated to creating and performing innovative and dynamic works of contemporary dance. We strive to push the boundaries of what dance can be and to inspire our audiences with our passion and creativity.
Promote Indian Classical Music, Dance and preserve the rich Indian Culture in the U.K.
and beyond.
Encourage local talent and other art enthusiasts in the community and provide opportunities to work with International professional artists.
Arts in Education : Creating a good environment for opportunity and growth by lecture-demonstrations and classes for children and the community and enhance their participation and creativity.
Create an awareness of the rich Indian culture and heritage through art – related workshops ,share and experience it with the modern audiences.
Organise and showcase events, master classes and collaborate the local talent with the International artists wherein each student will be encouraged to bring forth their potential as an artist.
Dance and Music well-being program: Designed for the dance/music educators and the dancers to assist and educate the community at large about the positive effects of music and dance.
Work with children and young adults, underprivileged, specially challenged, people with disability and the community at large.
Aim
To provide children, young adults, and the community with an effective and enjoyable introduction to performing arts. To foster appreciation for Indian culture and tradition through classical music and dance forms. Offer beginner's courses in South Indian classical dance and classical music (Carnatic music), introducing these art forms to children and young adults through workshops, classes, educational initiatives, wellness programs, and outreach efforts. Collaborate with various professional art organizations and communities in the UK to achieve our goals.
Education Programmes
We understand the significance of dance education and are dedicated to offering learning opportunities for students of all ages. Our range of programs, including after-school sessions, summer intensives, workshops, and masterclasses, aims to both inspire and push young dancers to grow and develop.
Join our company
We are always looking for talented and committed dancers to join our company. If you have a passion for contemporary dance and want to be part of a supportive and collaborative community, we would love to hear from you. Visit our 'Join Us' page to learn more about our auditions and how to apply.
Support our work
As a non-profit organization, we rely on the support of individuals and organizations to continue creating and performing great dance. Visit our 'Support Us' page to learn more about how you can make a donation, become a sponsor, or volunteer your time.
contact Us
Have a question or comment? We'd love to hear from you! Visit our 'Contact Us' page to send us a message, give us a call, or connect with us on social media. We're always happy to chat with our audience and supporters.
Meet Dr. Chithra Ramakrishnan MBE
Chithra is a multifaceted individual who wears many hats within the realm of South Asian arts. As the Founder and CEO of ShruthiUK, the Founder and Curator of the Birmingham Thyagaraja Festival, and the Founder Director of the British Carnatic Choir, she has played instrumental roles in promoting and preserving Indian classical music and dance forms.
Coming from a family deeply rooted in music, Chithra's journey began with her parents recognizing her innate talent for both Bharatanatyam and Carnatic music at a young age. Under the guidance of renowned Gurus, she honed her skills, eventually showcasing her talents on prestigious platforms across India, the Middle East, and the United Kingdom. Her performances on esteemed television channels and radio stations, along with her appearances during the Madras Music season, have garnered critical acclaim, highlighting her prowess in the field.
Beyond her musical achievements, Chithra is also an accomplished Bharatanatyam dancer, specializing in the Vazhuvoor style. Her passion for propagating South Indian art forms globally led her to establish ShruthiUK, a non-profit organization aimed at making Carnatic music and dance more accessible in the UK. Through workshops and interactive sessions, she endeavors to instill an appreciation for Indian culture among children and communities at large.
Chithra's commitment to holistic healing through music is evident in her pioneering use of Indian classical dance for therapeutic purposes in the Midlands. Her unique methods, coupled with her compassionate approach, have positively impacted individuals of all ages and abilities, fostering confidence and enhancing mental and social well-being.
A staunch advocate for cultural diversity and heritage preservation, Chithra actively supports various charities and humanitarian causes, furthering her mission to promote Indian classical arts and culture in the UK. With academic credentials including MBAs in Marketing & Finance and Human Resources, along with a doctorate in Management, she continues to be a driving force in the field. Recognized as a Fellow of esteemed institutions like the Royal Society of Arts, London, and the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland, Chithra's contributions extend far beyond the stage, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.
Dr Chithra Ramakrishnan,MBE, FRSA, FRAS
Celebrates Arts and Cultural Traditions through Arts Festivals
Celebrates Arts and Cultural Traditions through Arts Festivals
Celebrates Arts and Cultural Traditions through Arts Festivals
Impact of Indian Classical Music and Dance in Education
Celebrates Arts and Cultural Traditions through Arts Festivals
Celebrates Arts and Cultural Traditions through Arts Festivals
Wellness Through Indian Dance
Celebrates Arts and Cultural Traditions through Arts Festivals
Wellness Through Indian Dance
Wellness through South Indian Classical Arts
Carnatic music is a system of music from the Southern part of the Indian
Subcontinent and is one of the oldest systems of music and a great devotional element in its compositions.
It is based on a system of ragas (melodic scales) and thalas (rhythmic patterns) There is a much elaborated pattern for identifying the various melodic scales called ’72 Melakartha ragas’. There are 7 rhythmic cycles or thalas and 72 basic ragas.
The 'trinity' of Carnatic Music Saint Thyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshatar and Shyama Shastri, have composed several immortal compositions in Carnatic Music.
ShruthiUK conducts classes in Carnatic Music.
Children also gain exposure and knowledge through workshops by visiting artists within the UK or elsewhere. One to one sessions or in groups, provides a platform showcase their learning through participation in music festivals and workshops. Encourages young talent and provide additional expert guidance and nurture them as upcoming young musicians. In addition, Children are encouraged to participate group and synchronised singing, taught the importance of Indian culture and traditions through celebrating Indian festivals like Diwali and Navaratri and the relevance of Carnatic music to these festivals.
For details about classes please contact:info@shruthiuk.com
Bharatanatyam is one of the traditional South Indian Classical dance forms that originated from the temples in Southern India. Also known as ‘Daasi aattam’, Sadir, or Chinnamelan, this dance form is especially popular for its grace, art of expression and story telling, its purity and elegance and its divine origin. Bharatanatyam, according to Balasaraswathi, a celebrated and distinguished dancer has been a great source of inspiration is one of World’s greatest dancers. - ‘Bharatanatyam is a natya yoga that reveals the spiritual through the physical and emotional body. ‘ ShruthiUK conducts regular classes in Bharatanatyam- on the ‘Vazhuvoor Bani (Style) margam repertoire’ South Indian Classical Dance a holistic healing
ShruhiUK conducts wellness workshops and dance sessions with the children and young adults with Special Needs and various community workshops. Bharatanatyam, also known as ‘Natya Yoga’ is a dance form that nourishes the body, mind and soul. Help the differently abled and children experience and enjoy Bharatanatyam, using gentle and coordinated movements and hand gestures For more info about the workshops and wellness programmes,
For further details, please contact- info@shruthiuk.com:
Charity and Fundraising
ShruthiUK partners with local and national fund raising and charitable organisations to support for a good cause, through showcasing Carnatic Music and Bharatanatyam
WELLNESS THROUGH SOUTH INDIAN CLASSICAL DANCE - DEMENTIA AND BHARATANATYAM
Governance
Prof Helen Higson, OBE
Dr.Paul Sabapathy, CVO,CBE
Dr.Paul Sabapathy, CVO,CBE
Her Majesty's Vice Lord Lieutenant of West Midlands
Professor of Higher Education Learning and Management in Aston Business School
Director of Accreditations
Dr.Paul Sabapathy, CVO,CBE
Dr.Paul Sabapathy, CVO,CBE
Dr.Paul Sabapathy, CVO,CBE
Her Majesty's Former Lord Lieutenant of West Midlands
Patron, British Carnatic Choir