I · Apas / Water
The first threshold
“Every river begins its journey. So does every artist.”
Kalaarnavaa
Ocean of Performing Arts
A classical dance & music academy in Bengaluru, led by Bharatanatyam artist Smt. Pooja Raj — where every student is mentored personally, and every movement is refined like a wave finding its shape.
Smt. Pooja Raj · Founder & Artistic Director
— 01 —A living tradition
Rooted in practice. Open to every learner.
Welcome to Kalaarnavaa — Ocean of Performing Arts. Our studio nurtures a love for dance and music in students of every age and level: taught by an experienced guru who prizes technique and creativity together, in a warm, supportive space where each dancer finds their own voice.
- rated by families on JustDial
- 4.8★
- from first steps to the stage
- All ages
- every class taught by Pooja Raj herself
- Guru-led
Pancha Bhoota
Five elements. One path through the arts.
Scroll to descend
Apas
I · Water
Every river begins its journey. So does every artist.
The threshold: movement, reflection and the courage to begin.
Enter Home— 02 —Vayu · Courses
Disciplines carried by breath and rhythm
Four learning paths, guided personally and built from strong foundations.
- 01
Classical dance
Bharatanatyam
Strong foundational technique, repertoire learning and creative choreography — the complete classical journey, from the very first adavu to the stage.
Ages 5+
Beginner · Intermediate · Advanced
- 02
Classical music
Carnatic Vocal
Classical South Indian vocal training for all age groups — sruti, swara and kriti, built patiently from the fundamentals until the voice finds its confidence.
All age groups
Beginner · Intermediate · Advanced
- 03
Expressive
Semi-Classical & Folk Dance
Performance-oriented training for stage events — semi-classical and regional folk repertoire that builds expression, stamina and real stage presence.
All ages
Beginner · Intermediate
- 04
Tradition & values
Shloka Chanting & Cultural Values
Optional sessions for cultural grounding — learning shlokas, their meaning and the values behind them, so young students stay rooted while they grow.
All ages
Beginner
Agni · Guru Parampara
One lamp lights another.
Knowledge is received with discipline, practised with care and passed forward with responsibility.
Guru Dr. Sanjay Shantaram
The living source
Guru
Guru Dr. Sanjay Shantaram
Renowned artiste and mentor whose guidance forms the living source of Pooja Raj's Bharatanatyam practice.
Disciple · Founder
Smt. Pooja Raj
Founder and Artistic Director of Kalaarnavaa, carrying her Guru's discipline into personal, patient teaching.
The next generation
Kalaarnavaa students
Learners who receive the form, practise it with care and carry its values into the future.
The ancient library
Knowledge Hub
An accessible archive of ideas around Bharatanatyam, its practice and living traditions.
Enter the archiveManuscripts in preparation
- 01What is Bharatanatyam?
- 02What do the hand gestures mean?
- 03Why does a dancer wear ankle bells?
- 04Why is the jewellery shaped the way it is?
- 05Who is the figure in the dancing pose?
Upcoming events
The next dates will be announced here.
We will publish programme, workshop and recital details once they are confirmed.
— 03 —Voices from the academy
What students and families carry with them
Excellent place for your kids to start their dance journey. Smt. Pooja Raj is a dedicated dancer and a professional — I've seen great improvements in my child's learning, posture and discipline within a few months. Highly recommended for Bharatanatyam.
“I've been learning Bharatanatyam for two years under Pooja mam's guidance. It's a wonderful place to learn — she teaches well, is strict and caring, and encourages us to come forward in everything.”
“We are truly blessed to be part of the Kalaarnavaa family, and so happy with our guru Pooja Raj — a very inspiring personality. Her dedication to the dance and to her students is wonderful.”
Akasha · Gallery
Where practice becomes presence
Real rehearsals, recitals and moments from the Kalaarnavaa community.
An invitation from the founder
“Art has no age, dance has no barrier — only passion.”
Kalaarnavaa was created to give every student a place to feel seen, encouraged and guided. With the blessings of my Guru, Dr. Sanjay Shantaram, I aim to shape dancers who carry tradition with pride and rise with confidence.
Smt. Pooja RajFounder · Disciple of Guru Dr. Sanjay Shantaram