As we step into the new year, we begin by celebrating the power of art to shape lives, minds, and communities. In this issue, we are delighted to share an intimate conversation with Dr. Rathna, whose journey through Dance, music, and literature reflects a life devoted to integrity, learning, and teaching. From her earliest memories in a family of artists to her work with children across the world, Dr. Rathna offers insights that inspire both reflection and action.
Join us as we explore her story, her philosophy, and the values that continue to guide her and the students at Junoon toward a deeper, more meaningful engagement with the arts.
Early Influences: A Family of Artists
Dr. Rathna was born into a remarkable artistic family where literature, music, and folk traditions shaped her earliest experiences. Her grandfather and great uncle were renowned Telugu writers, while her aunt immersed themselves in Carnatic and folk music, travelling extensively across India to collect and perform songs. Her aunt became the first woman in India to present a Master’s thesis on folk music, later published by the Sangeet Natak AKademi.
Dance, however, held a special place. From the day she was born, her mother decided to fulfil the dream she could not pursue herself. From the age of two, Dr. Rathna attended every available performance, Bharatanatyam, contemporary Dance, Russian ballet, Uzbek and French forms, observing with curiosity and reverence. Even before formal training, her mother taught her to notice the subtle beauty in movement, instilling a deep appreciation for artistry that transcends style or origin.
Core Values in Teaching
Integrity, sincerity, and honesty are central to Dr. Rathna’s teaching philosophy. She emphasizes staying true to her art form and the lineage of knowledge she carries. Every student is seen with discernment, exceptional talents are nurtured, students with potential are encouraged, and those less suited are guided thoughtfully towards alternate paths.
In today’s fast paced world, sustaining a child’s attention requires creativity and care. Fear based discipline no longer works; instead, encouragement, goal oriented performances, and reminders of the art’s sacredness help keep young learners engaged. Her belief is clear, learning Dance is not merely technique, it is a way to cultivate sensitivity, empathy, and awareness.
Evolving Relationship with the Body
Dr. Rathna’s body has been both her instrument and her teacher. In her youth, she Danced through injuries and life events with athletic precision. With age, loss, and stress, she has adapted her practice to align with her physical capabilities, focusing on expressive storytelling through abhinaya rather than purely athletic feats. Even today, she surprises herself with what her body can accomplish, blending experience, restraint, and creativity.
Bringing Dance to Children: Outreach and Storytelling
Her work extends beyond traditional classrooms. In the United States, she engages children in inner city elementary schools, introducing Indian Dance through storytelling and gestures. Children learn to express emotions and narratives through movement, absorbing the language of Indian Dance while developing curiosity, focus, and joy. This outreach reflects her core philosophy, art is not only technique but also a means of holistic growth, empathy, and connection.
Junoon: Nurturing the Next Generation
At Junoon, Dr. Rathna’s philosophy resonates strongly with the Academy’s approach. Students are encouraged to explore multiple art forms, observe performances, and reflect on their learning. Writing, journaling, and discussion are integrated into the curriculum to deepen comprehension and critical engagement. Junoon also emphasizes outreach, bringing Dance to diverse communities and ensuring that art is accessible, meaningful, and inspiring.
Through this ecosystem, students not only learn movement but also develop discipline, resilience, and confidence, carrying forward the values Dr. Rathna holds dear, integrity, dedication, and respect for the art form.
Conclusion
Dr. Rathna’s journey reminds us that art is sustained not just by technique but by care, integrity, and the courage to adapt while staying true to one’s roots. Early exposure, thoughtful mentorship, and openness to diverse forms have shaped her as both Dancer and teacher. As we begin this year, her reflections offer a guiding light, true learning, like true art, is slow, deep, and profoundly human. Through institutions like Junoon, this vision continues, nurturing the next generation of artists who will carry these values forward with sensitivity, courage, and creativity.
This is Junoon.
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