Jiji Rajagopal
At the heart of Ahalya Dance Academy is Jiji Rajagopal, a celebrated Indian classical dancer whose artistry and dedication have made her a prominent figure in Edinburgh’s cultural scene. With a career that includes prestigious performances across India and the United Kingdom, Jiji is known for her graceful technique, refined storytelling, and mastery of abhinaya, the art of expression. Her performances are a visual delight, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.
Her deep-rooted passion for classical dance led to the creation of Ahalya Dance Academy, a space where students can experience the beauty and discipline of Indian classical forms, particularly Bharatanatyam and Mohiniyattam. Through her teaching, Jiji inspires students to not only learn the art form but to live it with sincerity, creativity, and cultural pride.
Her vision, combined with her unique style and attention to detail, has shaped the academy into a nurturing and vibrant community for aspiring dancers. Under her guidance, Ahalya Dance Academy continues to flourish as a beacon of tradition, expression, and excellence.
Anoop Menon
Anoop Menon is the creative force behind many of Ahalya Dance Academy’s most iconic productions. A gifted performer and choreographer, Anoop is known for his distinctive style, blending classical technique with imaginative choreography that captivates audiences and brings stories to life on stage.
Trained under the esteemed Guru Dr. RLV Sunil Nellay, Anoop’s foundation in Indian classical dance is both deep and diverse. His early years were marked by outstanding performances at Kerala State School Kalolsavam and Calicut University Union Kalolsavam, where he earned recognition for his talent and versatility. These formative experiences gave him the opportunity to explore a wide range of dance forms, including Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, and Indian folk dances.
At Ahalya, Anoop plays a vital role in shaping the academy’s artistic vision. His choreography is known for its creativity, precision, and emotional depth, and his productions are celebrated for their visual richness and cultural authenticity. He is deeply committed to teaching Indian classical dance in its pure and traditional form, while also encouraging students to understand the philosophy and cultural significance behind each movement.
Anoop’s passion lies not only in performance but also in advocating for the authenticity of Indian classical arts. Through his work, he strives to inspire a deeper appreciation for these timeless traditions and to nurture the next generation of dancers with both skill and soul.
Anoop Menon and Jiji Rajagopal are a celebrated Bharatanatyam duo whose artistic partnership extends beyond the stage into life itself. As husband and wife, their shared journey in the classical arts reflects a deep devotion to nṛtta (pure dance) and abhinaya (expressive storytelling), two pillars that they seamlessly blend to create performances of rare depth and beauty.
Trained under renowned gurus and steeped in the rich tradition of Bharathanatyam, Anoop and Jiji have developed a distinctive style that is both rooted in classical grammar and vibrant with personal creativity. Their choreography stands out for its intricate rhythm structures, precise geometry of movement, and emotionally charged narratives that touch audiences across generations.
Over the years, they have graced many prestigious stages, receiving acclaim for their aesthetic sensitivity, stage presence, and synchronized artistry. Each performance by the duo is a dialogue between masculine and feminine energy, movement and stillness, tradition and innovation.
With every presentation, Anoop Menon and Jiji Rajagopal reaffirm Bharatanatyam’s timeless essence, transforming devotion into dance and dance into divine expression.