Our School

Padma Paadam School of Performing Arts Inc., (a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization) established by Vid. Thejashwini Ramarao, is dedicated to providing comprehensive training in the art of Bharathanatyam. In addition to Bharathanatyam instruction, the school offers online shloka classes, Samskrutham Classes and partners with another non-profit organization, "Shri Yoga Inc.," to offer supplementary online yoga lessons to all students.

Classes are offered in both online and in-person formats, accommodating students from Maryland as well as various other states across the United States.

The school adheres to a structured syllabus and employs innovative teaching approaches to ensure that each session is both instructive and enjoyable for its students. Our curriculum is carefully crafted to offer a comprehensive dance education encompassing technique, artistic expression, and performance skills.

Students of various age groups receive instruction in dance theory, Indian cultural history, choreography, and nattuvangam, in addition to the practical aspects of Bharatanatyam. Students actively engage in community events and competitions in the Maryland and Virginia areas, earning recognition and praise from art enthusiasts.

In addition to intensive dance training, students at our institution have the option to enroll in certificate or diploma courses in Bharatanatyam provided by the Akhila Bharatheeya Gandharva Mahavidyalaya Mandal in Pune, India. The school also administers periodic class-level exams to ensure that students are progressing effectively in their learning journey.

Furthermore, the school is committed to organizing workshops in diverse educational fields that enhance the profound understanding of Bharathanatyam and India's rich culture and heritage. Esteemed artists and scholars are invited to lead these workshops.

 As a non-profit organization deeply committed to giving back, we take pride in our active involvement in charitable endeavors. Each month, 100% of the fees collected from our Shloka classes are dedicated to supporting various charitable organizations across the United States and India. 

As a distinguished member of the International Dance Council (CID), and a direct partner of UNESCO, we uphold the highest standards of excellence in dance education. Furthermore, we recognize and celebrate the dedication and progress of our students by offering CID certificates to those who demonstrate exceptional proficiency in mastering the classical Indian dance form, Bharathanatyam.  

At our school, we firmly believe in the transformative power of "Art." Our primary objective is to create an inclusive and encouraging environment where individuals of all ages and skill levels can explore their passion for dance and unlock their full potential.