Call for the Nāyikāntaraṅga – 2025 An advanced short-term certificate course with an integrated internship programme

Noopura Bhramari (R.) Karnataka – one of the meritorious institutions dedicated to the studies, publication, advanced research, documentation and scholarship in performing and allied arts, is accredited as a Centre for Indian Knowledge Systems from the IKS Division at the Ministry of Education, Government of India.

The Centre has successfully implemented numerous programmes and projects under the IKS Division with outstanding results. Interns trained here have received prestigious recognition at both national and international levels, along with notable publications. In addition to the Noopurabhramari magazine and journal, the Centre has accomplished nearly 10+6 book publications, and organized initiatives such as 3 conferences, 8 symposiums, 11 certificate courses, 12 workshops, 2 internships and a fellowship programme, 40 special broadcasts on All India Radio, over 20 research-based performances, numerous magazine and journal publications, and the curation of 150 audio-visual series and documentaries.

Now, the Centre is glad to invite applications for the prestigious, most awaited advanced short term certificate course with an integrated internship program Nāyikāntaraṅga – 2025 on Nāyikās and Nāyakas (Heroines and Heroes) of traditional theatre-dance and poetics.

Course Instructor: Dr. Dwaritha Viswanatha, Renowned Academician, Bharatanatya Acharya,         Co-Principal Investigator and Chairperson of Performance wing at Noopura Bhramari IKS Centre.

Aim and objective

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of ancient literary compositions and their performative relevance, bridging rigorous textual study with contemporary traditional dance interpretation.

What does this course aim to contribute?

1. Through the detailed examination of primary texts such as Daśarūpakam (Dhananjaya), Śṛṅgāra Prakāśa (Bhojaraja), Rasamañjarī (Bhanudatta), and Śṛṅgāra Mañjarī (Akbar Shah), the course delves into the nuanced portrayals of Nāyikās, Nāyakas, and Sakhīs, illuminating how these archetypes and aesthetic ideals continue to shape traditional Indian dance narratives.
2. Supplemented by references from Kālidāsa, Amaruśataka, Śṛṅgāra Śataka, Padams, Jāvalis, and other poetic sources, the course addresses common misconceptions, explores categories and subcategories of characters, and engages with the interpretive dilemmas dancers often face.

Key components
• Exploration of the emotional and dramatic layers in character portrayal
• Study of both male and female protagonists, as well as their companions (Sakhīs)
• Practical tools for interpretation and choreography rooted in śāstra
• Clarification of śāstra-based practices and appropriate application of āhārya (costume and visual elements) to maintain aesthetic integrity in performance.

• By combining theory and application, the course aims to deepen both the intellectual and artistic understanding of dancers, scholars, and theatre practitioners alike

For Whom Is This Helpful?

Course/Internship is designed for performers, serious learners, and teachers.

Who can apply?

Eligibility is merit-based, with candidates selected on the strength of their application and experience. Applicants should have at least 7 years of performance experience in any traditional dance of India or should have completed a senior-level training. All applications will be reviewed, and the final decision rests with the selection committee.

When? How to apply?

The Course/Internship will commence on 13^th August 2025. Apply using the Google Form https://forms.gle/Se9gbKgBj8y2MxZE9

Course structure and Internship Guidelines

• The course consists of a total of 12 sessions, each lasting one and a half hours, scheduled over a duration of 6 weeks. It will be conducted as online group classes with English as the medium of instruction on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 8:30PM – 10:00PM.
• The learning approach is interactive, incorporating discussions, reflective assignments and engagement-based methods. Candidates are expected to maintain disciplined, respectful behaviour.
• The internship is an optional component of the program. Interested participants may enrol in the course without opting for the internship. Candidates are free to opt for the internship programme even after the course has commenced. As part of the internship commitment, candidates have to undertake research writing and performance activities, guided through structured instructions and periodic mentoring. Deadlines must be adhered to. Internship contributions are preferred in Kannada, English, Hindi or Sanskrit. The possible title and a brief proposal must be submitted.
• The fee structure has been shared in Google form. All candidates are required to pay the course fee in a single instalment. Please note that the fee is non-refundable in case the candidate chooses to discontinue the course.

Honour

• The certificate will be awarded to the candidates upon successful completion of the course.
• Only Interns who complete the internship will receive the stipend with certification.
• Opportunities/extensions will be granted based on merit & goodwill.

Last date to apply: 8^th August 2025

For more information on our programmes, internships, publications & courses, please visit: www.noopurabhramari.com

For further enquiry- ‪+91 9964140927

OR Email:  editor@noopurabhramari.com