Indian ballerina Dhvani Kothari is on a mission to make ballet accessible to all in India, challenging stereotypes and misconceptions about the dance form.
With her school, the National Ballet School of India, Dhvani is providing training to over 250 students across 12 centers in Mumbai, ranging from three-year-olds to a 44-year-old mother of two.
Key Takeaways
- Dhvani Kothari's National Ballet School of India is making ballet accessible to all in India.
- The school follows the Vaganova method of Russian ballet, known for its rigorous training and emphasis on technique.
- Dhvani is working to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about ballet, and to create more opportunities for professional ballet dancers in India.
What happened
Dhvani's own journey into ballet was unconventional, starting at the age of 13 after trying other dance forms like jazz and hip hop.
She found her passion for ballet when a Russian instructor visited India, and she eventually went on to train in Croatia and Hungary.
Why it matters
Ballet is often seen as a dance form only for the privileged or for those with a certain body type, but Dhvani is working to change this perception.
She believes that ballet is for every body type and age, and is working to make it more accessible and inclusive in India.
By the numbers
- 12 centers in Mumbai where the National Ballet School of India is located
- 250 students currently training at the school
- 3 years old, the youngest student at the school
- 44 years old, the oldest student at the school
- 75 countries participated in the Bosphorus Ballet Festival, which Dhvani won at the age of 19
What it means for you
If you're interested in learning ballet, Dhvani's school offers classes for all ages and skill levels.
The school follows the Vaganova method of Russian ballet, known for its rigorous training and emphasis on technique.
Students can expect to learn from experienced instructors and be part of a supportive community that encourages growth and development.
What happens next
Dhvani plans to continue growing her school and making ballet more accessible in India.
She hopes to see more boys pursue ballet and to create more opportunities for professional ballet dancers in India.
The infrastructure for ballet in India is gradually improving, with more venues and studios becoming available, such as the Royal Opera House and NMACC.
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As the demand for ballet continues to grow, Dhvani's school is well-positioned to provide high-quality training and performance opportunities for students of all ages and backgrounds.
With her dedication and passion, Dhvani is helping to break down barriers and challenge stereotypes, making ballet a more inclusive and accessible art form in India.
Moreover, Dhvani's school is not just about teaching ballet, but also about creating a community that values discipline, hard work, and creativity.
By providing a platform for students to express themselves and showcase their talents, Dhvani's school is helping to foster a love for ballet that will last a lifetime.
In addition, the school's emphasis on technique and rigorous training is helping to prepare students for a career in ballet, whether it's as a professional dancer or as a teacher.
As the school continues to grow and expand, Dhvani is committed to maintaining the high standards of excellence that have come to define her school.
With her vision and leadership, the National Ballet School of India is poised to become a leading institution for ballet in India, and a model for other schools to follow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Vaganova method of Russian ballet?
The Vaganova method is a rigorous and technically demanding approach to ballet training, known for its emphasis on proper technique and alignment.
How old do you have to be to start ballet training?
You can start ballet training at any age, from 3 years old to adulthood.
Is ballet only for girls?
No, ballet is for both boys and girls, and Dhvani's school is working to encourage more boys to pursue ballet.
