Students of Sunanda Narayanan, Thillai Fine Arts Academy - Rajan sisters win at the Cleveland Aradhana dance competition, 2019.
Smita Rajan, won third place out of 40 participants in the Keertanam dance item category of the junior dance competition at the prestigious Cleveland Thyagaraja Aradhana festival. Smita began her journey in dance with Guru Sunanda Narayanan at age 6, and has developed a deep passion for Bharatanatyam. She completed her Arangetram in June 2016. Smita, now 17 years of age, is pursuing advanced training under her Guru's guidance, and also assists her with lessons for beginner students. Smita is also trained in ballet. Smita is a junior at the Noble and Greenough school in Dedham, MA. She is a lead soprano for Nobles Chamber music.
Divya Rajan, won second place out of 25 participants in the Varnam sub-junior category and a special mention in the Keertanam category of the sub-junior dance competitions at the Cleveland Aradhana festival. Divya is a repeat winner at the Cleveland Aradhana, having won awards in her age group in 2018 and 2017. She was also a prize winner at the recent New Jersey Natyanjali dance competition, 2019. Divya has been a student of Sunanda Narayanan since age 5. Divya is 13 years old now and an extremely dedicated dancer. Divya's talent was spotted early by Guru Smt. Rhadha, who gave her the lead role of Krishna in her dance production, Nowka Charitram, staged at the Cleveland Festival in 2016. Divya completed her Arangetram in June 2018. Divya attends Weston Middle School, and is one of the lead Alto saxophone players for her school band. Smita and Divya both learn Carnatic vocal music lessons from Smt. Aparna Balaji. Smita and Divya enjoy performing dance items in duo format as well as dancing in a group format with their peers.
Both Smita and Divya are very grateful to their teacher, Sunanda Narayanan, for her training and guidance.
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