Trailblazing First
One of Singapore’s leading lights in classical dance, acclaimed internationally for path-breaking productions and cultural diplomacy.
Trailblazing First
One of Singapore’s leading lights in classical dance, acclaimed internationally for path-breaking productions and cultural diplomacy.
TRAILBLAZING FIRST
For me Kuchipudi is a perfect combination of spritely lyricism, intricate rhythmic patterns and consummate acting (abhinaya) which lends to its appeal as it adheres to the precepts laid down in the Natya Shastra.
My foray into Kuchipudi, after Bharatanatyam, Kathakali and Martial Arts has given me the opportunity to play and enjoy the new works and experimentations that happens along the way.
As we stand on the shoulders of many great gurus who handed down this legacy, we in turn hope to enrich it, while it enriches us, and pass it on to new generations of aspirants and audiences.
The intense and rewarding experience of performing; the special joy of nurturing new and young talents; the motivation from audiences the world over; the inspiration from life itself – continues to make it a wholesome and fulfilling journey.
The world of dance creates a Kairos space for me where time is non-sequential and qualitative in nature – offering me the sanctuary, fantasy and peace, I so treasure. It has also allowed me the curiosity, the creativity and, I dare say, the cheekiness with which I view life today.
When I am dancing, I feel at peace…. like everything is working perfectly for me and through me…
– Shantha Ratii
Recent honours recognising artistic excellence and leadership.

Bharatha Kala Ratna • Singapore
Recognising global impact, artistic innovation and mentorship.

Shantha Ratii Initiatives (SRI) Ltd., New Delhi
Excellence in Art and Cultural Performances.
TRAILBLAZING FIRST
In a dazzling career spanning five decades, Shantha Ratii has scaled almost every peak in Indian classical dance. Critics hail her as ‘sculpture come alive,’ ‘visual poetry,’ and ‘a rare combination of quicksilver movements and beguiling abhinaya.’ She trained under legendary gurus in Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi and Kathakali, and was among the first members of the Singapore National Dance Company, representing her country in Australia and Russia. She has performed across the globe – USA, UK, Switzerland, Japan, Iraq, Australia, Russia, and Malaysia – at prestigious festivals and venues. Beyond performance, she has innovated by introducing calligraphy, martial arts, and cross-cultural collaborations into Kuchipudi, creating works that bridge tradition and modernity. Through the International Dance Day (IDD) Festival and Shantha Ratii Initiatives (SRI), she nurtures young artists through her Mentorship programs, finds new ways to address social issues of our time like environment, coping with Covid and inspires new audiences. She acts as a catalyst for building a cohesive and strong multicultural art landscapes in Singapore while promoting Indian Culture Worldwide.
TRAILBLAZING FIRST
Blending classical purity with creative innovation, she redefined Thillanas as rhythmic Sawal–Jawab woven with intricate footwork. She expanded the repertoire with regional sahitya, Varnams, and Ninda Stuthis, and revived Vachika Abhinaya in Bama Kalapam. In Veera Naaree, she introduced English dialogue for Queen Rudramma’s soliloquy—an artistic first. Her Suddha Nrittam celebrated the mathematical genius of Gurus through rhythmic cycles, while Infinitely Yours Atchyuta, inspired by the Bhagavad Gita, conveyed lessons in character building to youth and professionals. She has also beautifully interpreted the Nirguna and Saguna philosophies of Kabir and Meerabai, enriching Indian classical dance with timeless meaning and modern relevance.
TRAILBLAZING FIRST






TRAILBLAZING FIRST
A nayika enticing her beloved she can be devastating in unleashing her charms. In pure dance numbers, Shantha with her stage presence weaves a web of magic, dancing in an effortless manner.
Sparkling yet soft character of Kuchipudi style admirably suits her artistic temperament…. Her winsome eyes are capable of expressing highly complex emotions with both subtlety and charity.
Kuchipudi dancers may occasionally lack grace and finesse. Not so Shantha… in spite of all the globalised exposure her Kuchipudi still has the indigenous flavour… Shantha’s penchant for abhinaya had its finest moments in the Annamachariya’s composition.
She brings classical remoteness near the heart... She is destined to shine as a lovely Venus among the stars.
TRAILBLAZING FIRST
Mumbai - India • 2005
New Delhi - India • 2001
Madhyapradesh - India • 2014
Mumbai - India • 2019
Mumbai - India • 2018
Singapore • 1966
TRAILBLAZING FIRST
TRAILBLAZING FIRST
TRAILBLAZING FIRST
November 18, 2023
Singapore Night Festival does a remarkable display of a multitude of shows to illuminate the Bras Basah, Bugis (BBB) Art precinct including at CHIJMES, National Museum and Funan Mall.
Evoking the 9 aspects of Shakti within us. Whether as Durga, Lakshmi or Saraswathi. Reclaiming that power through worship or meditation; cleansing ourselves of our own demons within – the fears and insecurities that have supressed our strength.
Today is THE Day! This re-launch of the docu-film “And Miles to Flow” is purely the brainchild of my dear US based friend Anita Kulkarni. She is a unique mix of Architect, Singer and Arts Promoter through The Renu Forum for the Arts.
Copyright © 2025 Shantha Ratii
