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Trained in Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi under the esteemed Guru Dr. Rathna Kumar, recipient of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2010), Rukmini made her solo debut (Arangetram) in the same year. She continues to deepen her practice under the tutelage of Barkha Patel in the classical dance form of Kathak.
Through Indian classical dance, Nasha tells the story of Chandalika. This dance drama written by Rabindranath Tagore, is one of his most revered works which tells the story of a forlorn young girl from the untouchable caste who finds spiritual freedom through a chance encounter with a buddhist monk.
Chandalika’s role is reprised by Rukmini. Choreographed and performed by all members of NYU Nasha.
A classical dance drama from Nasha's Annual Benefit Showcase that takes on the tragic Nirbhaya rape case documented in "India's Daughter".
Choreographed and performed by all members of NYU Nasha.
Rukmini Das - Arangetram
A collaboration of two different classical dance forms that compare and celebrate the nuances and parallels between them.
Choreographed and performed by Rukmini and Shalini Das.
While studying at New York University, Rukmini served as the Captain of NYU Nasha, a South Asian fusion dance troupe known for its innovative storytelling and blend of classical Indian dance with contemporary and jazz styles. The team won multiple national competitions and donated proceeds from its annual showcase to a different charity each year. Today, Rukmini continues to explore and evolve through various dance forms.
The introduction video for NYU Nasha's competition piece, "Checkmate".
Choreographed and performed by all members of NYU Nasha. Filmed by Neeraj Jain.
NYU Nasha's 1st Place Performance at Sholay 2017. The piece tells the tale of two sisters separated in childhood who become the rulers of opposing kingdoms in a live-action game of chess.
The co-lead role of the “white chess queen” was reprised by myself. Choreographed and performed by all members of NYU Nasha.