GURU DR. MALINI KRISHNAMURTHI
Dr. Malini Krishnamurthi is the Artistic Director of the Natyanjali School of Dance in West Covina, California. An exponent in Bharata Natyam, Malini is an acclaimed performer with many noteworthy performances to her credit in the U.S. India and Europe. Malini is regarded as a superb choreographer and an exceptional teacher who has transformed many young children into passionate and superb dancers. Malini’s students are testimonials of her ability as a meticulous teacher. In recognition of her contribution to the local community, the Hindu Temple Society of Southern California has awarded her the title of ‘Asthaana Vidushi’ which means ‘community’s scholar.’
Malini was initiated in this art at an early age and has trained intensively for several decades under Kalaimamani Guru Sri. Kalyanasundaram of the Sri Rajarajeshwari Bharata Natyam Kala Mandir-Bombay, India. Besides dance, Malini has had formal training in classical Carnatic music for over several decades.
In addition to dance which is her passion, Malini is an academician who teaches Management Information Systems in Business and Economics at the California State University at Fullerton, in the city of Fullerton California.
The curtain is parted. There is a hush in the auditorium filled only by the melodic strains of the tambura and the cymbals. One is consumed with anticipation and nostalgia at the sight of the statue of Nataraja bedecked with flowers, at the fragrance of incense burning, and at the sound of tinkling anklets. The dancer walks in ever so gracefully, offering obeisance to the Lord of dance-Nataraja.
The lights become bright, the striking figure of the dancer fills the stage with her presence. “Endowed with attractive features and an enchanting personality” is the way critics have described her. Malini has started her performance. Her mastery over the complex idiom of her art and consummate control over the grammar of stylized abhinaya bears testimony to her passion and devotion to her work. Her impressive facial expressions move the audience in a wave of emotions. Her rhythmic footwork and sculpturesque poses delight the mind for their geometric perfection and architectural beauty.