About Dharshanodiyaa School of Bharathanatiyam
Founded in 2012 in Stoke-on-Trent under the dedicated guidance of Artistic Director Smt. Darshikka Rajasegaram, Dharshanodiyaa School of Bharatanatyam is a vibrant centre for the classical Pandanallur style of Bharatanatyam. Today, the school nurtures over 100 students across all age groups and serves as the UK sub-centre of Kalai Kaveri College of Fine Arts, Trichy, offering a four-year diploma program with official certification.
More than a place of dance training, Dharshanodiyaa is a cultural home. Students not only master intricate techniques but also participate in community and charity events, building confidence, discipline, and a strong cultural connection. For the past six years, the school has also shared its artistry with the Kerala Cultural Association (KCA).
A major milestone came with the school’s first-ever Arangetram, a proud achievement for both teachers and students. Each year, Dharshanodiyaa hosts an annual showcase to celebrate its dancers, with proceeds supporting local charities and providing educational aid to underprivileged children in Sri Lanka.
The school plays an active role in Stoke-on-Trent’s cultural life, performing at prestigious events including the 100 Years of Stoke City centenary (featured on BBC News West Midlands), Stoke Big Feast, Around the World, Big Dance, the Mayor’s charity events, and festivals such as Diwali, Pongal, and Onam.
About Smt. Darshikka Rajasegaram
Founder, Teacher, and Artistic Director Smt. Darshikka Rajasegaram (M.A. in Bharatanatyam) brings over 12 years of teaching experience to her role. She began her Bharatanatyam journey at the age of six in Sri Lanka under Srimathi Paranjothi Paranganam, later training under Dr. G.J. Leema Rose in the UK. While holding a B.A. in Management of Information Technology from the University of Wolverhampton, her lifelong passion for dance led her to earn a Master’s degree in Bharatanatyam from Thanjavur Tamil University, India.
Smt. Darshikka is an accomplished choreographer whose acclaimed productions include War Torn: Sri Lanka’s Tale, Sri Krishna Vaibhavam, Velu Naachiyar, Aandal’s Divine Love, Thamizh, Ther Thruvizha, Raamayanam: A Raavana Perspective, Paanjali Sabatham, Social Media, Ponniyin Selvan, and Global Warming: A Dance of Panjaphoodhas.
Her commitment to spreading the joy of dance extends beyond Dharshanodiyaa. She teaches at the Tamil School, Stoke (12 years) and the Kerala Cultural Association, Stoke (6 years), conducts Bharatanatyam and Bollywood workshops for all ages and abilities — including those with special needs — and serves as an examiner for Griffin College London and judge for dance competitions.
Through her teaching, choreography, and community engagement, Smt. Darshikka Rajasegaram is devoted to preserving Bharatanatyam’s rich tradition while making it relevant, inspiring, and accessible for future generations
