The S N D T Women’s University (Mumbai) has introduced a three-year Diploma course and a Certificate Course in two classical Indian dance styles, Bharata Natyam and Kathak. The medium of instruction will be Hindi and English. The classes will be held in the evenings at the premises of S N D T’s college at New Marine Lines. The academic year for this course begins in December. It is open to both men and women.
 
Lasya, a dance institution has been invited to form the syllabus and conduct the classes. The Director of this institution Rajshri Shirke, student of Kanak Rele holds a Masters degree from Nalanda Nritya Mahavidyalaya in Bharata Natyam. She has trained in Kathak under various gurus including Birju Maharaj. 

Indu Raman will head the Bharata Natyam Department. She has trained in Kalakshetra under eminent gurus. A dancer, teacher and writer on the arts, Indu Raman runs her own institute, Rangshree.
 
The syllabus of this course is unique in that it aims to impart a holistic education to students.  The subjects will range from the history of dance to its theoretical aspects, vocal music, nattuvangam, stage management, light and sound design, Indian literature and culture. The faculty’s approach will aim to provide an intimate and informal environment to encourage self-expression, initiative and creativity. The teaching will not be confined to classrooms, but will extend through workshops, seminars and lectures by eminent scholars and artistes. Training in folk dances is also on the anvil. The students will form their own repertory, which will work on an annual production project. An advanced course for gifted post-diploma students will be introduced at a later stage. These students will specialize in the subject of their choice. 
 

For more information, email 
Rajshri Shirke - rajashreeshirke@yahoo.com 
Indu Raman - rangshree@yahoo.com.