Anita Ratnam, an accomplished classical dancer and choreographer, is one among India's most gifted artists. She has also established herself as a scholar, television personality, and cultural activist.
She had her initial dance training under Adyar K Lakshmanan and later went to Rukmini Devi Arundale's Kalakshetra for advanced training. She obtained a post graduate diploma in dance. Anita Ratnam is trained in Bharatanatyam as well as Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, the classical dances of Kerala. Having done her Master's degree in Theater and Television from the University of New Orleans in the USA, she spent ten years as a television producer/commentator. Her works earned her the Emmy and Ace award nominations.
She is the founder-director of Arangham, a performing arts organization, established in Chennai, in 1992. It is dedicated to explore, enrich, and promote the performing and visual arts of India. She has authored a book, 'Natya Brahman,' on the comparative drama traditions of India and Greece. She is also the editor and publisher of 'Narthaki,' a directory of Indian dance.
Nritya Choodamani by Sri Krishna Gana Sabha, Kalaimamani for Dance Research by Government of Tamilnadu, Media Achievement award by National Organization of Women in New York, Mahatma Gandhi Award for cultural harmony, Lalithakalaratna by Sri Lalithakala Academy Foundation Trust, and Natya Ratna by Sri Shanmukhananda Sangeeta Sabha are some among her achievements.
