Kiran Ratna
Now based in Pangbourne in West Berkshire, Kiran introduced Bharatanatyam to Wales in 1980. From 1991 she dedicated herself full time to the development of Bharatanatyam and became the founder and Artistic Director of India Dance Wales and is considered a pioneer of classical Indian dance in Wales. She has presented numerous Arangetrams (professional debuts) of her students, many of whom are now well accomplished dancers and teachers themselves.
Kiran began her studies in dance at an early age in India and started learning Bharatanatyam in the UK from Chitraleka Bolar, with further advanced training in India from her guru’s guru Ullal Mohan Kumar.
Kiran has directed, choreographed and performed many innovative works that have won her Company much acclaim. Over the last 4 decades, Kiran has done much in her teaching, workshops and performances to introduce British audience to the flowing grace and exquisite precision of Bharatanatyam. Through the training programs Kiran has produced excellent performing and teaching Bharatanatyam dancers of the next generation.
Kiran is now an international Examiner for the Classical Indian Dance faculty and a Fellow of the Imperial School of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD).
Awards & recognition:
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In 2020 awarded Fellowship of ISTD.
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In 2011 first to receive the Welsh Asian Women’s’ Achievement Award.
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In October 2010 and 2016, invited by her Majesty to a reception at Buckingham palace to mark her contribution to dance.
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The first Distinguished Teachers’ award from Milapfest (a UK based umbrella arts organisation) for her lifetime work in establishing Bharatanatyam in Wales and beyond.