Sorna is currently a sophomore at Chantilly High School, and has been learning Bharathanatyam for the past 10 years. Her journey began when she was 5 under the guidance of Guru Smt. Vidya Sankaranarayanan.
Over the years, Sorna has performed at SV Lotus Temple, Shiva Vishnu Temple, Murugan Temple of North America, and the Cleveland Thyagaraja Festival. In 2024, she performed at the D.C. Mayor's Office.
Besides dance, she loves music, art, and is involved in debate and women in law at school. She has been learning Carnatic music from Guru Smt. Maragatham Ramasamy. Sorna would like to thank her friends, family and Guru for their encouragement and help in achieving this milestone.
My Guru and inspiration behind this festival, her decades of dedication to classical dance and unwavering commitment to nurturing young talent have shaped generations of artists across the DMV.
As the Artistic Director of Brihadisha School of Music & Dance, established in 2009, she is committed to preserving the authentic standards of the Thanjavur style. Through Brihadisha, she has revived many classical pieces from the Tanjore Quartet, contributing significantly to Bharatanatyam's classical purity.
Located in Herndon, VA, Brihadisha has become a magnet for students and enthusiasts across the USA who share a dedication to preserving this classical Indian art form.
✦ Core Team ✦
This festival is a student-led initiative — every member of this team is a young artist committed to celebrating and preserving classical Indian dance in the DMV community. We are grateful for their dedication, energy, and heart. ✦