Natya Dance Theatre

Flowering Tree, inspired by A Flowering Tree, a Kannada folktale popularized by A.K. Ramanujan, is one of Natya’s memorable full length productions that brought Bharatanatyam into a rich theatrical space.

Premiered in 2011, the work tells the story of Kumudha and her sisters, whose lives change through a divine gift that allows Kumudha to transform into a flowering tree. What begins as a blessing slowly reveals a deeper lesson about greed, balance, and our responsibility toward
nature.

With twenty dancers, live narration, storytelling, and an original score, Flowering Tree became more than a dance production. It became a powerful reminder of conservation, preservation, and the connection between all living things.

The production also toured through several cities, sharing its message with wider audiences
and leaving a lasting impact.

As we look back at Natya’s productions over the years, Flowering Tree continues to bloom with meaning and relevance.

We are proud to share that Hema Rajagopalan was honoured with an award for Outstanding Cultural Leadership, presented by Maria Pappas and the United Punjabis of America.
This recognition celebrates her enduring contribution to the arts, culture, and community, a proud moment for the entire Natya Dance Theatre family.

Behind every dancer is a mother who made the journey possible.

From bringing them to class to waiting through rehearsals to standing quietly backstage
they are always there, even when unseen

Moms of Natya is our way of celebrating these women
their strength, their patience and the love that shaped every dancer you see today.

A small thank you to the ones who were there for every step!

In a city like Chicago, Bharatanatyam becomes more than just a dance form.
It becomes a way to stay connected, to discover, and to belong.

Rooted in tradition yet open to everyone, it continues to grow with every dancer who chooses it.

If this is something you’ve been curious about, maybe this is your sign.
Join Natya Dance Theatre and begin your journey.

Krithika Rajagopalan, Board Member, Principal and creative Director, she has been a steady force with NDT since the 1995.

She began her training with her mother Hema Rajagopalan and also was student of Guru Kalanidhi Narayanan, carrying forward a rich and deeply rooted legacy that continues to evolve through her own practice and perspective.

A producer, performer, teacher, and choreographer, Krithika brings both conviction and care to innovating while staying true to the integrity of the legacy and creating a platform that develops the next generation of artists . Her journey with Natya Dance Theatre spans many roles from student, teacher, performer, creator, producer and for that matter stagehand. While each role brings her joy, her happy place will always be — “with bells on”

At Natya, Bharatanatyam is never just about what we see on stage. Behind every performance are so many hands working with love, care, and dedication.

Our tailor has been one of those quiet pillars of support, stitching countless costumes by hand and making sure our students are always ready to perform. His work has been part of so many special moments for our Natya family.

During this difficult time, we are deeply grateful to all the parents and families at Natya who came forward with generosity and kindness to support his cancer treatment. Your contributions, prayers, and support remind us that Natya is truly a community that stands together.

Thank you for all the support.