Natraj Dance Academy was established in 1983 by 
Vijayalakshmi Shetty, a leading Indian Classical 
Dance Cheographer and teacher in the US. Students 
initially receive sound training in the practice 
and theory of Bharatanatyam.  After mastering the 
Bharatanatyam style, students are taught other 
classical dance styles like Kuchipudi, Mohiniattam 
and Odissi. 

Vijayalakshmi began her initial training in 
Bharata Natyam at the age of six from Guru P.G. 
Chellapa of Chennai. She also received advanced 
training from Uma Dandayadapani Pillai, daughter 
of the late K. N. Danayudhapani Pillai, considered 
as one of the greatest Bharatanatyam dance 
choreograpers of all times. She received training 
in Kuchipudi from Dr. Vempati Chinna Satyam. 
Vijayalakshmi has performed internationally and 
received numerous awards. With over 20 years of 
teaching experience, she has taught several 
thousand students in the Chicagoland area. She is 
dedicated to promoting classical Indian dance in 
keeping with the strict traditions of the art.
Classes are conducted at several locations.