After learning the basics under Vidya Govindan, Raji learnt under the Kunhiramans around the age of seven. Raji had been learning under gurus Katherine Kunhiraman & K.P.Kunhiraman, where she found herself at home with her various dance friends. "There is no meaning of art, if you can't share it with someone." says Raji. Raji mentions that although dance is an art through which one must not gain an ego, it is nice to have friendly competitions that you allow yourself once in a while. In addition to her dance, Raji had grabbed any chance that had allowed her to improve even in the subtlest ways. She went to dance camp held by the Dhananjayans, and had found that her form had improved, but it doesn't stop there since practice makes perfect! Raji had never allowed herself a break longer than a week from dance.
Even in that week she kept practicing small movements key to her learning.
She had also learnt under KP Yeshodha and perfected an opening item
in eight days.
Even in that week she kept practicing small movements key to her learning.
She had also learnt under KP Yeshodha and perfected an opening item
in eight days.
Later in her life, she moved to Alpharetta, GA and resumed her dance under the guidance of Uma Palam Pulendran. During one summer, Raji attended Radhika Surajit's workshop. Raji learnt body expressions, movements, and methods she had never come across before while working with Uma. "I found it to be exhilarating and fun. It's the exact essence of what is needed for dance." Raji believes that although Abhinaya and Nritta are both essential to dance; yoga, flexibility, and meditation are required to take dance to another level. She even took a workshop class with Smt Leela Samson to perfect her movements even more.
"Understanding is definitely needed to become a good dancer, but to become the character is what shows a true dancer!" Raji exclaims. Uma teaches not just dance but fundamental knowledge for her students so they can be prepared for the world, come what may. Raji also learns all types of music, her specialty, carnatic and international classical opera. She began music at the same time as dance. She says it is necessary to keep a good rhythm
and not just for music and dance, but in life as well.
Raji still has interest in all types of arts, "Intensity can always be practised, but curiosity chooses
its partner. During the times i'm not dancing or singing, I like to paint as a way of getting rid of
excess stress." Raji believes that being healthy is important for all artists, both in the mind and
body.
"Understanding is definitely needed to become a good dancer, but to become the character is what shows a true dancer!" Raji exclaims. Uma teaches not just dance but fundamental knowledge for her students so they can be prepared for the world, come what may. Raji also learns all types of music, her specialty, carnatic and international classical opera. She began music at the same time as dance. She says it is necessary to keep a good rhythm
and not just for music and dance, but in life as well.
Raji still has interest in all types of arts, "Intensity can always be practised, but curiosity chooses
its partner. During the times i'm not dancing or singing, I like to paint as a way of getting rid of
excess stress." Raji believes that being healthy is important for all artists, both in the mind and
body.
