In a time when most teenagers are glued to screens or buried in schoolwork, there’s one young girl from Nagpur who chose a different beat, quite literally. Chetna V, a Class 10 student, recently brought pride to her city and the Indian classical dance community by receiving the ‘Nritya Kala Bhushan Bal Puraskar 2025’, a prestigious recognition given to promising young talent in the field of Bharatanatyam.
The Early Spark
Chetna’s love for Bharatanatyam began at a young age. What started as a hobby soon turned into a heartfelt pursuit. With every class she attended, her connection with the dance form grew deeper. She wasn’t just learning steps; she was understanding stories, emotions, and the spiritual core that Bharatanatyam embodies.
She found her rhythm under the guidance of two experienced mentors—Smt. Ratnam J Nair and Dr. Pooja Hirwade—who not only trained her technically but also helped her develop a unique stage presence and emotional depth.
National Recognition, Earned
Each year, the Cultural Foundation of India identifies a handful of young dancers who stand out not just for their skill, but for their commitment and consistency. From a pool of over 350 applicants, Chetna made her way to the top 17 recipients—an achievement that speaks volumes about her dedication.
Receiving the ‘Nritya Kala Bhushan Bal Puraskar’ wasn’t just a win; it was validation that her voice as a dancer was being heard on a larger stage.
Not Her First Time in the Spotlight
Chetna isn’t new to recognition. Over the past few years, she has participated in several competitions and cultural festivals, earning accolades such as:
- First Place – Akhil Natrajam
- First Place – Shri Hari Niketan
- Third Place – Akhil Bharatiya Sanskrutik Sangh, Pune
Each performance sharpened her craft and taught her something new—whether about expression, timing, or audience connection.
A School’s Pride, A City’s Inspiration
At Centre Point School, Nagpur, Chetna is not just known for her dance but also for her ability to balance academics with art. Her principal, Ms. Perveen Cassad, and vice principal, Ms. Bhakti Bobde, praised her for embodying both discipline and creativity. For the school, her achievement is more than a student winning a medal—it’s a moment of collective pride.
Looking Ahead
Chetna’s story isn’t about reaching the top, it’s about how she got there and where she’s headed next. With passion in her heart, she represents the future of Indian classical dance. Her journey reminds us that tradition is safe in the hands of the next generation, especially when those hands move with such grace.
And for anyone who thinks Bharatanatyam is old-fashioned, watch Chetna dance. You’ll see how timeless it truly is.
