Artistic Director

Sheela Ramanath honed her Bharatanatyam skills under the tutelage of Gurus Sridevi Thirumalai (Natyamani School of Dance) and B. Bhanumati, the Director of Nrityakalamandiram. Sheela was among the original members of the renowned troupe Bharatanjali. Founded by her teacher, Guru Bhanumati, this troupe pioneered group choreography in Bharatanatyam. The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) awarded Bharatanjali the recognition of "Best Bharatanatyam Dance Troupe". As part of Bharatanjali and as a soloist, Sheela performed extensively throughout India, the UK, and the USA. 

After moving to the United States, Sheela started Kalavaridhi Center for Performing Arts in 2001 as an alliance of Nrityakalamandiram. Sheela builds upon her gurus' teaching methods, creatively adapting them to each student. Following the traditional curriculum for Bharatanatyam, Sheela teaches both the theoretical and practical aspects at each level. Her manner is gentle and unhurried, yet uncompromising on quality. She strives to mold young artists into versatile dancers. She inspires her students to constantly better themselves. Her journey in choreography progressed with her foray into teaching. 

Sheela is deeply rooted in the tradition of the art form, yet continually evolving. She is constantly pushing the limits of her creativity.  

Sheela has completed her Masters Degree in Bharatanatyam with distinction. She is also a full member of the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing, UK. She has been awarded Fellowship by the prestigious Organization- Performing Arts Educators for her invaluable contribution in the field of dance and for her innovative teaching methodology. Under her stewardship and vision, Kalavaridhi has become one of the most sought after premier institutions that promote Bharatanatyam in Northern Virginia.