We teach folk dance forms of India.

Discover the essence of Indian dance at Nruthya Shakti Dance Academy (NSDA), a leading institution based in the vibrant Dallas-Fortworth metroplex. Since its founding in 1994, NSDA has stood as a symbol of excellence, providing a wide range of classes encompassing folk dance lessons, theatre, and theory.

At NSDA, we believe in nurturing learners to become better artists. Our curriculum goes beyond technique, empowering students to explore their creativity, choreograph their routines, and engage with Indian culture. With many performance opportunities throughout the year, students can showcase their talent and grow as performers. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or new to the art form, NSDA welcomes you to join our community and embark on a journey of self-expression, discovery, and cultural immersion.

Your dance adventure awaits at NSDA– come, dance with us!

2025 annual show

A poster showing various Indian gods and characters for NSDA annual show for 2025.

Meet

Vandita Parikh

For over 23 years, Vandita has taught Indian folk and contemporary dance. She began with rigorous Bharatnatyam training under Mrs. Nirmala Sharma and Smt. Krishnaveni Akka at the Kalakshetra Dance Academy. To expand her skills, she attended advanced workshops at "Darpana Academy Of Performing Arts" under Guru Mallika Sarabhai and trained with mentors like Gopi Master, Madhumati Barman, and Smt. Vasantha Aravindan.

Vandita's dedication to fine arts has earned her acclaim. In 2011, she received the President's Award from Smt. Pratibha Patil for promoting folk art and culture. She has taught Indian folk dance at the Booker T. Washington School for Performing Arts, presented folk theory and dance forms at Stanford University, and conducted workshops at the University of Texas at Dallas, Oklahoma State University, and the Indian Association of North Texas.

Beyond NSDA,  she serves as a board member of One Earth, One Chance, a Dallas-based organization dedicated to combating climate change, and a member of the advisory team for the Garage Arts Project (GAP), a non-profit providing a platform for artists. She has a loving husband,  three daughters, and a golden retriever.

Vandita Parikh performing Indian folk dance at an annual show.
Vandita Parikh performing Indian folk dance at an annual show.

Vandita's dedication to fine arts has earned her acclaim. In 2011, she received the President's Award from Smt. Pratibha Patil for promoting folk art and culture. She has taught Indian folk dance at the Booker T. Washington School for Performing Arts, presented folk theory and dance forms at Stanford University, and conducted workshops at the University of Texas at Dallas, Oklahoma State University, and the Indian Association of North Texas.

Beyond NSDA,  she serves as a board member of One Earth, One Chance, a Dallas-based organization dedicated to combating climate change, and a member of the advisory team for the Garage Arts Project (GAP), a non-profit providing a platform for artists. She has a loving husband,  three daughters, and a golden retriever.

Performance

Booker T. Washington students showcase their final performance at NSDA Workshop

spotlight

Garba

Garba is a folk dance that originates from Gujarat. The folk dance is performed during the nine-day Navratri festival, and celebrates the feminine form of divinity. The dance involves singular steps in sync, while dancing in a circular formation. The folk dance is very popular form that has been embraced globally.

Learn more

Dance "back to the temples" and Nrithya Seva

At Nruthya Shakti Dance Academy (NSDA), we connect students with Indian heritage through performances at various temples, celebrating the cultural and spiritual significance of dance. These events foster a deep sense of pride and belonging while encouraging students to engage in Nrithya Seva, giving back to the community through their art.

Each performance inspires appreciation for our cultural roots, ensuring that the spirit of Indian dance thrives within our community. Together, we empower the next generation of artists to uphold and celebrate our traditions.

Temple courtyard where dance performances could be held.

A Hindu temple courtyard.

Dance as therapy

We are dedicated to inclusivity, offering personalized dance classes tailored for differently-abled individuals. Vandita collaborates closely with students and their families to develop customized curriculum that nurture creativity in a safe and supportive environment. Additionally, NSDA provides Dance Yoga classes aimed at enhancing mental health and well-being by alleviating stress and anxiety.

Endorsed by the Indian Association of North Texas and the Healthy You Lifestyle Center, these classes are accessible to everyone, requiring no prior dance or yoga experience. Through our initiatives, we strive to create a welcoming space where individuals can express themselves, find joy, and improve their overall quality of life through the transformative power of dance.

Silhouette of a dancer symbolizing the therapeutic benefits of dance.

Practicing mindfulness.