From Kerala to Lancashire: How Sruthy Mahima Sanalkumar is Keeping Indian Classical Dance Alive in the UK
In the heart of Preston, a vibrant cultural bridge is being built, one rhythmic step at a time. Sruthy Mahima Sanalkumar, a dedicated exponent of Indian classical dance, has transformed her local dance school into a sanctuary for tradition, rhythm, and artistic expression. For the children of the Indian diaspora and local enthusiasts alike, her studio has become more than just a place to learn steps; it is a vital link to the rich, ancient heritage of the subcontinent.
Bridging Cultural Divides Through Rhythm
Born and raised with the intricate movements of Mohiniyattam and Bharatanatyam woven into her identity, Sanalkumar moved to the United Kingdom with a mission to share the nuances of these classical forms. In an era where digital screens often dominate the lives of young people, her classes offer a grounding experience. “Dance is not just movement; it is a language,” she explains. “When my students master the mudras (hand gestures) and the complex footwork, they aren’t just performing—they are retelling stories that have survived for centuries.”
The atmosphere inside her Preston studio is electric. Clad in traditional attire, students of various ages gather, the sound of ghungroo (ankle bells) punctuating the air. For many of these children, who have grown up thousands of miles away from India, these classes serve as their primary connection to their roots, offering them a sense of belonging and cultural continuity that is often hard to sustain in a foreign landscape.
The Art of Discipline and Dedication
Learning an Indian classical dance form requires immense mental and physical rigor. Beyond the aesthetic beauty of the performances, Sanalkumar emphasizes the values of discipline, patience, and humility. She observes that the rigors of training help her students develop a deeper appreciation for the effort required to master any craft.
“It is a beautiful journey to watch a child transition from being unsure of their coordination to performing a piece with confidence and grace,” Sanalkumar says. By incorporating traditional Indian storytelling techniques with a contemporary teaching approach, she ensures that the art form remains accessible to the younger generation without stripping away its classical soul. Her curriculum encourages students to explore the underlying mythology and history behind every dance piece, turning each lesson into a holistic educational experience.
Building a Future for Heritage
The impact of Sanalkumar’s work extends far beyond the walls of her school. By performing at local community events and UK cultural festivals, her students have become ambassadors for Indian art, showcasing the diversity of the subcontinent’s cultural wealth to a wider British audience.
As she looks toward the future, Sanalkumar hopes to expand her reach, inviting more people to experience the transformative power of Indian classical dance. Her commitment to nurturing the next generation is a testament to the resilience of tradition. In a rapidly changing world, her school stands as a beacon of continuity, proving that no matter where one resides, the rhythm of one’s culture can always find a home. Through her guidance, the ancient echoes of Indian dance are not only surviving in Preston—they are thriving, evolving, and inspiring a whole new generation of dancers to step into the light.
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