The structure of Om Shanti Nrityalaya Evam Sanshodhan Kendra and its method of functioning is equivalent to a Gurukul system of education. The art form that is imparted, is not considered to be a hobby but is equated to parallel education. The Institute has mothers and daughters attending the Classical Dance classes together and age is no barrier.
The Institute believes that the training in Indian Classical Dance is an important subject by itself and cannot be seen as ‘extra- curricular’. Along with structured training in Bharata Natyam and Yoga, students also receive teachings of moral values and life skills that Classical Dance training imparts. The Institute believes in an all-round holistic development of the students.
At Om Shanti Nrityalaya Evam Sanshodhan Kendra discipline is emphasized, ensuring that, while students excel in their Classical Dance training, there also be a focus on all-round character development. Students are advised to present themselves with dignity in behavior, speech and attire and also understand the importance of time management. The Institute encourages students to balance their academics with their activities, to become effective multi-taskers and all-round achievers.
Traditional Raja Yoga and Hatha yoga sessions are conducted prior to the dance class for muscle strengthening, concentration and as a warm-up. It is repeated at the end of the class as a medium of relaxation and cooling down.
Students are encouraged to read specially selected literature on Spirituality, Religion, Mythology, Philosophy, World dances, Indian dances, Music, Value education, Self-improvement, Yoga and General health. Students are trained to observe the importance of all these mentioned subjects, in co-relation with dance training. Guidance is imparted to train students, to explore the various areas of Dance Research.
Audio-visual sessions are periodically organized, to facilitate an easier, as well as advanced form of learning. It is to inculcate a deeper appreciation of the subject of dance, as well as its allied subjects. Students are encouraged to view :
*The screenings of legendary artists
*Rare dance videos which are no longer in general circulation
*Specially curated and conceived dance content of the tutorials of Om Shanti Nrityalaya Evam Sanshodhan Kendra.
Since authentic and traditional learning cannot be restricted by geographical barriers, Om Shanti Nrityalaya Evam Sanshodhan Kendra has been conducting online Bharata Natyam and Yoga sessions for the past 20 years (way prior to the Covid pandemic of 2020). Special training techniques are implemented that are specific to the online training mode, to retain the efficiency and authenticity of the dance training. Regular private and general sessions are conducted online for Indians, Foreign nationals and Non-resident Indians.
Students are taken for Cultural and Educative outings, to witness the performances of legendary artists. This contributes to a wider outlook toward all Indian Fine arts and Literature.
To maintain the devotional aspect of the sacred form of Bharata Natyam, the Institute refrains from sending its students to dance competitions of any kind. Students are encouraged to perform at spiritual, religious and dignified artistic platforms as well as dance festivals. Traditional and authentic training is imparted for the auspicious Arangetram performance.
Yogasharay is a traditional Ashtanga Yoga Institute, associated with Om Shanti Nrityalaya Evam Sanshodhan Kendra. It has been training students of all ages for 30 years.
It follows the meditation techniques of Brahmakumaris World Spiritual University along with the teachings of the very respected and legendary Yogacharya Padmashri Sadashiv ji Nimbalkar.
In-depth knowledge is given about Asana, Pranayama, Bandha, Mudra, Surya Namaskar, strengthening techniques, improved mobility, recovery from injuries, prevention and stabilizing of Blood pressure and diabetes, etc. with authentic, age-old yogic training methods.
Individual courses are customized as per requirement. Techniques employed are to empower the student spiritually, emotionally, mentally and physically to deal with stress and face situations better.
Sessions are conducted offline, online, in groups, as well as personally on a one-to-one basis.
This is a holistic course where the focus is mainly on overall well-being.
illustrations by Mrinal Ramesh Ghodke