We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ashwini Sangam a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Ashwini thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Have you been able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen? Was it like that from day one? If not, what were some of the major steps and milestones and do you think you could have sped up the process somehow knowing what you know now?

Yes, teaching Bharatanatyam, choreographing, and nurturing a beautiful dance community. But no, it wasn’t like that from day one.

My journey began in a very organic way. I started teaching my daughter when she was just three, and soon a few friends asked me to teach their kids too. What began with just four children slowly grew as more parents saw the value of what I was offering, not just dance training, but a connection to culture, discipline, and expression.

I balanced my dance teaching with family responsibilities, raising my kids, and even volunteering in schools and local events. I poured my energy into every performance, festival, and opportunity to share Indian culture in San Diego. Each step — from organizing student performances to hosting exams, to inviting musicians from India for solo events — helped build credibility and trust.

I don’t think it could have been sped up much, honestly. Classical arts grow slowly, like a tree with deep roots. But maybe if I had started marketing or branding earlier, or used social media more strategically, it might have helped. Still, I believe everything happened at the right time for me. The satisfaction I get today, seeing over 100 students trained, Rangapravesha events, national-level wins, and a growing dance family, makes the journey worthwhile.

For anyone dreaming of turning their creative passion into a livelihood: stay true to your art, keep growing, and serve your students with love. The rest will follow.

Ashwini, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My deep passion for dance led me to become a full-time teacher and performing artist. I am the founder and artistic director of Mayur Natyalaya, a Bharatanatyam dance school based in 4S Ranch, with a second branch in Mira Mesa. At Mayur Natyalaya, we not only focus on classical dance training but also emphasize the theoretical and expressive aspects of Bharatanatyam. I conduct Abhinaya theory classes and organize certification exams through an Indian government-affiliated institution. I am also a recognized examiner for another classical dance organization. Over the years, more than 100 students, ranging from ages 3 to adult, have received classical training through my school. Over 50 students have successfully taken certificate exams, and many have completed their solo graduation, Rangapravesh (Arangetram). I strongly encourage every student to perform on stage, offering them opportunities to build confidence, refine stage presence, and deepen their understanding and love for the art form.
For our school events and solo performances, we collaborate with highly trained musicians from India—vocalists and instrumentalists skilled in mridangam, violin, veena, and flute—creating an authentic and enriching performance experience. During challenging moments in class, whether it’s mastering intricate footwork or conveying deep emotions, I share personal anecdotes from my own journey to uplift and inspire my students. Watching them grow through these experiences brings me immense joy and motivates me to keep creating new and meaningful choreographies for them.
Since founding Mayur Natyalaya, my role has grown beyond teaching. I now choreograph innovative pieces that connect classical dance with contemporary themes, making Bharatanatyam more relatable and impactful in today’s world. These thematic productions allow us to bring relevant messages to our audiences, showcasing the timeless power and versatility of this art form.
We actively participate in and organize fundraising events, and often collaborate with other dance artists in and around San Diego. These efforts not only help strengthen community ties but also allow us to explore diverse styles and bring unique productions to life. I also host workshops featuring renowned Bharatanatyam teachers from India, giving my students direct access to masters of the art. These workshops offer a rich exchange of knowledge, perspectives, and techniques, greatly enhancing the students’ learning experience.
I have the honor of teaching in India as well, where my students have excelled in competitions, including winning first prize at the national level, a true testament to their dedication and passion for the art.
Above all, seeing my students perform fills me with immense pride and satisfaction. Their confidence, talent, and heartfelt expression on stage serve as a beautiful reminder of the shared journey we’ve embarked on, and the power of dance to transform lives.
My mission is to preserve, promote, and pass on the timeless beauty of Bharatanatyam by nurturing dedicated, well-rounded dancers who embody discipline, devotion, and artistic excellence. Through thoughtful teaching, cultural connection, and soulful performance, I strive to inspire my students to carry forward this sacred art with pride, purpose, and grace, both on stage and in life.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

I was born and raised in southern India, the birthplace of Bharatanatyam, and my love for this classical dance form began at a young age. By the time I was nine, I was already pleading with my mother to enroll me in dance classes. She often says that I would’ve “gone crazy” without dance, and looking back, she was absolutely right. My elder sister, who always encouraged my creative pursuits, cheered me on and added to my excitement. Dance has always been my creative outlet and a vital part of who I am. It was a special moment when my mother recognized my passion and enrolled me in classes. I am forever grateful to my esteemed gurus, Prabhavathi Wamanacharya and Natyavidushi Smt. Rekha Hegde, whose high standards and dedication shaped me into the dancer I am today. Their warmth and commitment made every class a joy, even when it meant long commutes and intense practice sessions.
One of the proudest moments in my journey was completing my Rangapravesha (Arangetram)—a traditional and significant milestone marking the transition from student to performer. Along the way, I also trained in Nattuvangam (cymbals), which play an essential role in guiding rhythm and structure during performances.
In 2000, I moved to the United States, the so-called “land of opportunities,” and that proved true in more ways than one. In 2003, when my daughter turned three, I began teaching her Bharatanatyam. Soon, a friend asked me to teach her daughter as well, and before I knew it, a small group of students had formed. What started as informal lessons in a living room has grown into a deeply fulfilling vocation.
Teaching Bharatanatyam allows me to stay connected to my roots, share a treasured tradition, and guide the next generation of dancers. Watching my students grow in both skill and confidence has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist and especially an Indian classical dance teacher is witnessing transformation, in both myself and my students. It’s watching a shy child find confidence through expression, or seeing someone connect with centuries-old stories through their own body and soul. There’s a deep joy in preserving tradition, but also in making it feel alive, relevant, and powerful for the next generation. When I see a student finally feel the rasa (emotion) in a piece, or embody a character with authenticity, that moment of realization and connection is everything. It’s not just about teaching dance steps, it’s about shaping spirit, discipline, and a profound understanding of self and culture.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://www.mayurnatya.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DIG_AFTJo-y/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100047006756167&mibextid=ZbWKwL
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashwini-sangam
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@spam01234567?si=8kVMjfG4dyAnEceF

Image Credits
www.subathraphotography.com