PHOcus – Photo Feature on upcoming artists (Rukmini Vijayakumar)

Rukmini Vijayakumar was initiated into Bharatanatyam at the age of eight under the able tutelage of Guru Smt. Padmini Ra at the Ponnaiah Lalithakala Academy. Ably Directed by her Guru and motivated by the encouragement from home, Rukmini progressed over the years and has now blossomed into an artiste of promise. Her artwork today reflects the dedicated efforts of both teacher and pupil. The preserved purity of style added with the while graceful flow of movement is a delight to watch in her performance.

Rukku as she is fondly called, lives in an extended family that recognizes the need for the wholesome development of each individual and provides a conducive environment allowing much freedom in selecting avenues for self-expression.

Rukku after completing her PUC, joined Chitrakala Parishath. She is an avid water-colour painter, an exuberant CHYKster (member of the youth wing of the Chinmaya Mission), and has interests that include horse-riding and learning folk dance styles. She completed her Vidwat dance exam and has been a part of several productions rendered by the Ponnaiah Lalithakala Academy, Heritage, & the Chinmaya Mission at various centers around the state and country.

Rukmini is devotedly studying forms of dance and y oga. She is studying classical ballet under Yana Lewis, Karnas under Smt. Sundara Santhanam and practices Iyengar Yoga. She is also learning Tala from Sri S V Giridhar. A note to note, she is sure to reach further heights. We from DRISHTI wish her success all the way.