Today we’d like to introduce you to Harsha Hari
Hi Harsha, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Harsha Hari. I am an Indian classical dancer specializing in the South Indian dance form of Bharatanatyam.
My journey with Bharatanatyam began when my parents saw me dancing on a table as a child. Recognizing my passion, they enrolled me in Bharatanatyam classes. Due to my dad’s job, we moved frequently, but my love for dance never wavered. My parents supported me every step of the way, always seeking out new teachers and classes wherever we went.
Under the guidance of eminent gurus like Smt.Kalamandalam Anitha Babu, Smt.Thara Kalyan & Smt.Kalamandalam Sreejaya Nair, I developed the discipline and dedication required to master this art form. In addition to Bharatanatyam, I was also trained in Kuchipudi and Mohiniyattam, which enriched my understanding and appreciation of Indian classical dance. Performing on various prestigious stages across India further deepened my connection to Bharatanatyam. My passion led me to pursue my Masters in Fine Arts in Bharatanatyam, enhancing my knowledge of its history and cultural significance.
As I grew as a dancer, I naturally began experimenting with choreography. I discovered that I had a knack for creating original pieces, blending traditional elements with my unique artistic vision. This realization added a new dimension to my journey, allowing me to express myself in new and creative ways.
As my experience grew, I felt a strong desire to share the art form that had shaped my life. Teaching became a natural extension of my passion for Bharatanatyam. I wanted to inspire others, just as I had been inspired, and to pass on the knowledge and joy that this dance has given me. In 2018, I founded my dance school, Mudra School of Dance in Franklin, Tennessee, where I have been able to nurture and guide a new generation of dancers.
As an instructor, I strive to impart not only technical skills but also the cultural insights and spiritual depth of Bharatanatyam to my students. Watching them grow and develop their unique styles brings me immense joy.
Bharatanatyam is more than just dance for me—it’s a lifelong journey that continues to inspire and fulfill me every day.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Throughout my dance journey, I’ve faced several challenges that have shaped my path. Balancing academics alongside my passion for dance was a significant hurdle, as it required me to manage the demands of schooling while dedicating myself to the rigorous practice that Bharatanatyam demands. While I always knew that dance was my calling, there was often pressure to prioritize academics, as the arts are not always seen as a stable career path. This created a constant need to manage both, knowing that dance, while fulfilling, often doesn’t provide the immediate financial rewards that other fields might.
Starting my dance school, Mudra School of Dance, brought its own set of obstacles. As a founder, I had to navigate the complexities of building a brand, managing students, and ensuring the quality of instruction, all while staying true to my artistic vision.
Another ongoing challenge has been finding opportunities to showcase my talent. Even now, it can be difficult to find platforms that offer fair compensation. Many performances are still offered with the promise of “exposure” rather than financial support. While these opportunities help gain visibility, it can be disheartening to see art undervalued in this way. However, I’ve learned to navigate these challenges with resilience, and they have only fueled my determination to continue growing as an artist.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My achievements and work in the field of dance reflect a deep commitment to the art form and a passion for nurturing the next generation of dancers.
In 2018, I founded my own dance school, Mudra School of Dance in Franklin, Tennessee, with a vision to create a space where students could explore and excel in Bharatanatyam. Through my school, I have dedicated myself to teaching and mentoring, striving to provide a comprehensive education that balances technical precision with expressive artistry. I work hard to give my students as many opportunities to dance as possible, including annual recitals and various dance programs, to showcase their talents and gain valuable performance experience. My work has involved not only developing curriculum and managing the school but also fostering a supportive environment for students to grow both as performers and individuals. Additionally, I am working to build interest in other classical dance forms like Mohiniyattam and Kuchipudi, hoping to share their beauty and significance with a broader audience.
In addition to teaching traditional Bharatanatyam pieces, I find immense joy in choreographing my own works. Most of the dance compositions performed during our annual recitals, aside from traditional pieces, are choreographed by me, allowing me to share my creative interpretations and vision with my students. This journey into choreography has been both challenging and exhilarating, allowing me to push the boundaries of traditional dance and explore new creative avenues. Crafting original pieces not only enhances my personal artistry but also provides my students with fresh and innovative experiences. The creative process of choreography brings a deep sense of fulfillment, and I relish the opportunity to weave new stories and expressions into the fabric of Bharatanatyam.
I also find joy in dancing to semi-classical songs, for which I create my own choreography. This creative outlet allows me to blend classical techniques with contemporary expressions, adding a personal touch to my performances. I also have a group of dancers who share the same passion for dance as I do. Together, we enjoy performing, especially working on fusion dance pieces, which gives us the freedom to explore new artistic possibilities and express ourselves creatively in unique ways.
Despite numerous challenges, my achievements reflect a relentless dedication to my craft. My journey has been marked by perseverance and a commitment to excellence, shaping both my own artistic development and the future of my students.
What does success mean to you?
I define success by the positive impact I can make through my work and the personal growth of those I mentor. For me, success is seeing my students flourish, both technically and artistically, and witnessing their joy and confidence as they perform. It’s about creating a nurturing environment where dancers of all ages feel empowered to express themselves and achieve their fullest potential.
The steady influx of new students joining classes each month, mostly through word of mouth, is a testament to the success of the program and the trust placed in me. I am profoundly grateful to the parents of my students for their support, which has been instrumental in helping me achieve these goals together.
Seeing the sense of joy and empowerment that my adult students experience is also profoundly rewarding. Many of them have harbored a deep desire to learn Bharatanatyam since childhood but never had the chance. It’s this profound longing that brings them back to classes again and again, and witnessing their transformation and renewed self-confidence as they embrace their passion for dance is truly inspiring. Their stories of personal growth and newfound enthusiasm reinforce the meaningful impact of my work.
As I teach, I am also growing as a dancer, continually learning and evolving through the process of sharing my knowledge and passion. Ultimately, success is measured by the fulfillment and passion that dance brings to our lives, and the lasting connections and growth that arise from it.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mudraschoolofdance?igsh=YWN5Ymdsd3l4dmY3
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mudradancefranklin?mibextid=ZbWKwL
