THE NATYARPANA SCHOOL OF DANCE & MUSIC was founded by Ramya Kapadia to add to the rich cultural environment of Durham, NC. Training in Carnatic vocal and  Bharatanatyam is offered to children and adults. The performing ensemble comprises both students of the school as well as outside collaborators and tours within the USA and abroad. In addition, the school provides a holistic learning environment, where the students are encouraged to actively delve into Bharatanatyam’s troubled history and their own privilege and find ways to connect with their lives here in the United States. They are encouraged to pursue other art forms as well and seek ways to connect them to Bharatanatyam or Carnatic music and eventually to their lifestyles.