A great work of art is never really complete until the artist breathes life into it. In the case of Abinaya Natyalaya (a premier dance institute dedicated to imparting Bharatnatyam), one simply cannot distinguish between the architect and the institution. An exemplary example of creator becoming one with her creation. Abinaya Natyalaya is the heart and soul of 
Smt. Krishnakumari Narendran, whose dynamism, deep and ever-growing knowledge and unquenchable spirit the institute reflects.

Behind an institution that has trained over 300 students over 
the past 30 years and moulded over 50 solo performers, is a progressive Guru who draws inspiration from all realms of life. History, mythology, legends, technological advancements and changing trends – all find place in her creation.

Smt.Krishnakumari Narendran, an exponent of the Pandanallur school of dance and recipient of the prestigious Kalaimamani award, has the inimitable ability to blend them with contemporary styles, elevating dance to new heights with every performance.

CAREER

Having started her career as a 19 year old Bharatnatyam Guru in 1970, there was no stopping her indomitable spirit. She took on challenging opportunities even at that early stage, choreographing Krishnaleela and other significant ballets. With  ‘Purandaradasar’, a full-fledged dance drama that she choreographed, her forte for tasteful choreography and perfect execution were established beyond doubt. It gave her the rare opportunity to train 35 children, most of whom did not have a dance background at that time.

The year 1978 holds great significance for SmKrishnakumari, both professionally and personally. It marked the Arangetram of Parvati, her senior-most student. In the same year, Smt. Krishnakumari also entered wedlock, after which her husband and in-laws extended full support and encouraged her to continue pursuing her first love. 

In 1980, Abinaya Natyalaya was born, 10 years after Smt. Krishnakumari had started teaching. In the same year, the State award winning movie Purandaradasar was also released, bringing her great appreciation and accolades for her unparalleled  choreography.
 
The thread of commonality that runs across all of Abinaya Natyalaya’s productions is the grandiose execution. The combined presentation of Nirtta (the rhythmic movement of the body without any expression of emotion), Nirtya (the combination of rhythm with expression through eyes, hands and facial movements) and Natya (the dramatic element) is splendid…the tempo of which is matched only by Smt. Krishnakumari’s lively Nattuvangam. Audiences are often amazed at Smt. Krishnakumari’s Nattuvangam, where even the sounds seem to dance. Just as they are amazed at the way she has successfully trained a student who is hearing impaired, to perform flawlessly.

Smt. Krishnakumari has thus proved that to learn dance, all one needs is enthusiasm and an agile body and mind. Once these are in place, nothing can stop the art from taking over one’s spirit.