Meet our featured beauty with brains Dr Rethika Ravi, a Lecturer and Creative Director based in Melbourne, Australia.
She is a mother, wife, daughter, and works as a lecturer at one of the reputed Universities in Melbourne and is also the Founder, Artistic and Creative Director of Shakthiswaraa School of Dance.
Feel free to check out her FB page:
https://www.facebook.com/shakthiswaraa-School-of-Dance-260725261260632/
Here is an interview with this multi-talented gorgeous lady:
- Tell us more about yourself, what you do, your hobbies, passions etc.
I came to Melbourne in July 2000 as an International Student to pursue my master’s in Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology (RMIT University). I later completed my PhD in Oncology (RMIT) and was also awarded “Recognition for Outstanding achievement in Research – 2010” including publications and presentations to my credit. While in India, thanks to my parents I got trained in Classical Dance (Bharathnatyam) and Vocal – Indian Carnatic Music and Painting (oil and acrylic), Melbourne gave me opportunities to explore the world of arts and contribute to cultural awareness through dance and music. I have performed across various platforms both in India during the Reputed “December Margazhi Season 2017” and since 2003 in Melbourne. This year, I’ve been a part of the “Faces of Wyndham” Project, Ghost-Light series coordinated by the Wyndham Cultural center and featured in the “Star weekly” (June edition). Apart from being a passionate dancer, I am well-trained in Carnatic Vocal Music and perform regularly in Melbourne. I love playing the veena (string instrument too). I now have my own Dance school in Wyndham Vale (Shakthiswaraa School of Dance (Bharathnatyam – Kalakshetra/Tanjavoor Bhaani) established in March 2019) where I teach this traditional and ancient art form to anyone who aspires to learn it! Arts esp. dancing keeps me grounded whereas music and painting makes me find inner calm and peace…this is my form of meditation, devotion and my way of life. It has taught me self-control/time management/work-life balance, healed me and gives me happiness. I’ve always aimed at doing anything be it personal or professional with a lot of character and interest. My philosophy is “Never say I can’t, say I will try and give it your very best”!!! would seamlessly describe my life here so far…
- You run a dance school. Who or what inspired you to start it?
I love teaching – something that comes naturally to me! Staring a dance school to expand my horizons is something my dad initiated me into. My family has undoubtedly been my pillars of support at every step of mine. They have never stopped me from pursuing my interests which I think has played a significant role so far. I had a break of 4 years in between but started dancing again in 2017 after my daughter was born (she just turned 4!). Inspiration otherwise for me comes from the accessibility to Hindu temples where arts and culture are strongly encouraged throughout the year, the diverse and challenging opportunities that has come my way which has helped me take my dancing/singing to the next level (by the way of performances at events/programs/concerts), choosing the music, choreographing, deciding the costumes, my enthusiastic groups of students, and of course. It gives me immense satisfaction to see my students perform, to see their confidence grow, and enables them to develop a deeper connection with the rich Indian heritage. With every performance, I learn, I improve and find the self-motivation to keep going.
- Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?
(Smiles)!!! Mom of a teenager …
On the professional side, continue in the education and training industry (I love my job) On the personal side, would like to see my dance school grow. Would aim to teach as many people as I can and share the little that I know.
There is strength, grace and perfection in Bharathnatyam… it is not just the dance, it allows you to connect with your roots and express yourself truly. Inherent in it is deep meaning and complexity. Through Bharatanatyam you connect with the audience and yourself on an emotional level. It improves balance, flexibility, concentration and stamina by making the body and mind agile. It is a combination of music, poetry, movement and lots of storytelling. A performer needs to remember steps, names of the various steps, different moves, the beats and rhythm of the song. It is a centuries-old beautiful art form. For me personally, Bharathnatyam is sacred, it helps me connect to the divine. I aim and hope to impart this skill in dancing to budding artists!!!
- What does women empowerment mean to you?
I’ve always believed that woman are very capable, versatile beings. Being independent, patient and perceiving our dreams is something that comes naturally to us. To me women empowerment is having the voice to freely express our emotions and thoughts, help build one another in encouraging ways, changing challenges to opportunities and having the willpower and determination to getting out of the comfort zone, and simply being yourself! In short, being strong and beautiful inside out 😊 and believing in our dreams! I play various roles and aspire to be an all-rounder, and, on that note, I wish the very best to all the wonderful women out there including the one who raised me and the one who I am raising! Always walk with your head held high, take pride in what you do and shine like a bright star!!!
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