Chandrabhanu Bharatalaya Academy is a prestigious dance school located in Richmond, Melbourne. As the oldest Indian classical dance instruction centre in the city, it has garnered a well-respected reputation and is highly regarded within the community.
The academy specialises in teaching Bharata Natyam and Odissi, two traditional forms of Indian classical dance. These dance forms are known for their grace, precision, and expressive storytelling. The school offers classes for both children and adults, catering to all levels of proficiency.
Conveniently located in Richmond, the academy is easily accessible by train and tram. In addition to the Richmond location, classes are also held in Glen Iris, South Morang, and Point Cook, making it convenient for students across Melbourne to attend.
Classes at Chandrabhanu Bharatalaya Academy are held twice a week, with each session lasting one and a half hours. This ensures that students receive in-depth instruction and ample time for practise and improvement.
The academy is led by Dr. Chandrabhanu OAM, who founded the school in 1973. Dr. Chandrabhanu brings over 40 years of experience as a professional dance artist and is highly respected for his creativity and pioneering work.
He serves as an inspiring and visionary guru to his many dance disciples, and the academy under his leadership has become a vibrant cultural and community centre.
Dr. Chandrabhanu's contributions to the arts have been recognised with numerous accolades, including the Order of Australia Medal, which he received in 2006 for his outstanding services to the arts.
The Deputy Director of the academy is Ambika Docherty, an accomplished dancer proficient in both Bharatanatyam and Odissi. Ambika teaches the junior classes and also oversees all production design and costumes for performances and productions. Her expertise ensures that students receive top-notch instruction and have access to high-quality performances.
Krushna Chandra Ray, an All India Radio and Television artist, performer, and composer, is also a valuable member of the academy's team. With a Master's Degree in Odissi Classical and Hindustani Classical music, Krushna brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role as a vocalist.
A significant figure in the history of Chandrabhanu Bharatalaya Academy is Geoffrey Goldie. During his time with the academy's Bharatam Dance Company, Geoffrey created stunningly bold and vibrant sets and costumes that were unprecedented in their beauty and artistry. His artistic collaboration with Dr. Chandrabhanu yielded remarkable successes, firmly establishing the academy as one of Australia's leading institutions in the performing arts.
Overall, Chandrabhanu Bharatalaya Academy offers a rich and immersive learning experience for anyone looking to explore the captivating world of Indian classical dance. With its renowned faculty, dedicated students, and commitment to artistic excellence, the academy is at the forefront of preserving and promoting these traditional dance forms in the vibrant city of Melbourne.