Girija Chandran, founder of Regatta Natya Sangeetha Kendra in Thiruvananthapuram, has never performed on stage but has taught nearly a lakh students over 53 years, earning her the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for her contributions to Mohiniyattam.

Key Takeaways

  • 75‑year‑old Girija Chandran has trained nearly 100,000 students in 53 years
  • Never performed on stage, yet recognized for Mohiniyattam teaching
  • Regatta Natya Sangeetha Kendra turns 54 this December

Interview: The Story Before the Award

Founder of Thiruvananthapuram’s Regatta Natya Sangeetha Kendra, Girija Chandran, received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award 2025 at age 75. The honor acknowledges her lifelong dedication to Mohiniyattam, despite never having a solo stage appearance.

Early Life and Training

Girija’s sole stage experience came at age seven during her arangettam (debut). Conservative family values kept her from further performances, yet she trained under gurus like Kalakshetra Bhaskar, Indira Bayi Thankachi, and Sucheendram MM Pillai. In 1976 she moved to Chennai, learning Bharatanatyam from Vazhuvoor Ramayya Pillai and later from Adyar K. Lakshman.

Teaching Journey

In 1972, her father established the Regatta Cultural Society, which later focused on music and dance. By 1986, responding to student demand, Girija hired two Kerala Kalamandalam alumni to teach Mohiniyattam, marking the start of her deep involvement with the art form.

Recognition and Legacy

She notes that her grandfather’s brother, C.I. Parameswaran Pillai, received the same award for drama 66 years earlier, creating a familial legacy. Today, Regatta boasts over 50 Mohiniyattam productions and educates more than 500 students across classical dance forms.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that honoring educators like Girija Chandran underscores the essential role of teachers in preserving classical arts, inspiring future generations to value mentorship over performance fame.

"A teacher’s impact endures far beyond the spotlight," remarks renowned dance scholar Dr. Ajay Mehra.
Did You Know?: The Sangeet Natak Akademi has previously honored many teachers who never performed publicly, highlighting the importance of pedagogy in Indian classical arts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Has Girija Chandran ever performed Mohiniyattam on stage?

Answer: No, her contribution lies primarily in teaching and nurturing countless students.

Question 2: How many students are currently enrolled at Regatta Natya Sangeetha Kendra?

Answer: Approximately 500 active students are training in various classical dance styles.