Smt. Jyothi Rajesh
Founder & Artistic Director
Performer | Researcher | Educator | Guardian of Tradition
Biography
A Journey Rooted in Tradition, Flourishing in Excellence
Smt. Jyothi Rajesh is an embodiment of dedication, artistry, and the timeless guru-shishya parampara. Her journey in classical Indian performing arts began at the tender age of four, when she took her first steps in dance under the guidance of Sri. Prakashan Master.
What began as a childhood passion has evolved into a lifelong commitment to the preservation, practice, and propagation of India’s sacred dance traditions.
Artistic Lineage & Training
Jyothi’s artistic foundation was strengthened under the tutelage of the legendary late Kalamandalam Smt.Ranganayaki, whose grace and precision left an indelible mark on her style.
She continued her advanced training under Natyacharya Shri Thrishivaperur Kannan Master, absorbing the rich vocabulary and aesthetic depth of both Kalamandalam and Kalakshetra traditions.
Academic Excellence:
- Master’s degree in Bharatanatyam from Annamalai University
- Ongoing research in Natyashastra and Nattuvangam
- Training in multiple classical forms: Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Mohiniyattam
- Carnatic Music training
Her parallel training across dance forms and music reflects her belief that a true artist must understand the interconnected nature of all performing arts.
A Performer of Distinction
Jyothi’s artistry has illuminated some of the most sacred and celebrated stages across India.
Sacred Temple (Major ones) Performances
- Padmanabhaswamy Temple | Vaikunta Ekadashi2025
- Guruvayoor Temple| 2023
- Chottanikkara Temple| Navaratri Festival 2024 & 2025
- Mookambika Temple | 2018
- Avanengadu Vishnu Maya Temple | 2025
National Festival Appearances (Major Ones)
- Bharatanjali Festival | Chidambaram 2025
- Natya Kausthubh Nrithyotsav | 2019
- Simhapuri National Classical Dance Festival | 2019
- All India Classical Dance Festival | 2019
- Varatham Sangeetha Nrithyayotsav | 2019
Thematic Productions & Choreography
Her choreographic works demonstrate her ability to bridge tradition with contemporary storytelling, making ancient narratives accessible and engaging for modern audiences.
Notable Productions:
- Ayyappacharitham: The sacred story of Lord Ayyappa
- Sreekrishnacharitham: Chronicles of Lord Krishna’s divine play
- Mayil Varnam: An ode to the peacock, symbol of beauty and grace
- Sri Kurumba: Devotional exploration of sacred narratives
Honors & Accolades
- Adi Shankara Natyasree Puraskar: Presented by Princess Aswathi Thirunal Gowri Lakshmi Bayi at Kowdiar Palace
- Vani Devi Kala Ratna Puraskar: Conferred by Hon’ble Justice Dr. K. Narayana Kurup (Adamiyam 2024)
- Sree Saraswathi Kalaratnam: Chottanikkara Temple, 2023
- Natya Kala Jyothi: Natya Kausthubh Nrithyotsav, 2019
- Nadanamanga Award: Simhapuri National Classical Dance Festival, 2019
- Natyavipanji Award: Varatham Sangeetha Nrithyayotsav, 2019
- Kala Rathna Award: Kalari Panicker Kalari Kurup, 2025
- Malikapurathamma Chaithanya Puraskaram : Presented by His HIghness Karthika Thirunal Suresh Varma , Raja of pandalam , Pandalam palace.
The Teacher, Researcher & Visionary
Over the past 12 years, Jyothi has trained and mentored more than 100 students in Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Mohiniyattam, and Carnatic Music. Her students now perform confidently on respected cultural platforms, carrying forward the values and techniques they have imbibed under her guidance.
What distinguishes Jyothi as a guru:
Holistic Education
Students don’t merely learn dance steps—they study the theory behind the movements, understand the music that accompanies them, and master the art of abhinaya (expression).
Research-Driven Teaching
Her ongoing research in Natyashastra ensures that her teaching is rooted in authentic classical texts while remaining relevant to contemporary practice.
Building Community
Under her leadership, Navarasa Pranaah has grown into a vibrant institution with six trained teachers, creating an environment where both teachers and students pursue excellence.
Academic Structure
Conducting structured examinations in affiliation with Rabindranath University and Karnataka Board, providing students with measurable milestones.