Preserving Indian Culture Through Dance in Trinidad & Tobago: The Story of Bharatanatyam Teacher Reshma Rajeev

Reshma Rajeev, a passionate and dedicated Bharatanatyam teacher, carries with her the rich cultural heritage of India to the shores of Trinidad & Tobago. As the founder and director of Ananthara Space of Arts, Reshma has made it her mission to help Indian-origin people in Trinidad stay connected to their roots through the ancient dance form of Bharatanatyam.

Born and raised in a middle-class family in Kerala, India, Reshma faced numerous challenges in pursuing her passion for dance. Despite the hurdles, her love for Bharatanatyam never wavered. “No matter your background or the level of support you receive, embrace your passion and work hard for your dreams,” she says. “It’s not just about achieving them, but about staying dedicated to the dreams you’ve cherished for so long.”

After earning a degree in English Literature and Mass Communication, Reshma’s path took a pivotal turn when she joined the prestigious Kalakshetra Foundation in Chennai, an institution renowned for its dedication to preserving Indian art and culture. Following her time at Kalakshetra, Reshma earned a Master's degree in Bharatanatyam from the University of Madras. 

Her journey then took her to Trinidad & Tobago, where she now plays a vital role in preserving Indian traditions and engaging the local diaspora through her teachings. “My experience as a Bharatanatyam teacher here has been unique and enriching,” Reshma shares. “I find myself blending Indian culture with Caribbean influence. We have many students from the Caribbean who come to learn this beautiful art form.”

Bharatanatyam, one of India's oldest classical dance forms, has a deep spiritual and historical significance, dating back over 2,000 years. It originated in Tamil Nadu and is recognized for its intricate footwork, expressive hand gestures, and captivating storytelling. “The roots of Bharatanatyam go back centuries. This dance form is a kind of cultural preservation,” Reshma explains. “Through workshops, classes, and performances, we engage the Indian diaspora with the culture and roots of India.”

Reshma’s work aligns with the broader history of the Indian diaspora in Trinidad & Tobago. Indian migration to the island nation began in the 19th century, when indentured laborers were brought from India to work on sugar plantations. Over time, this population grew and evolved into a thriving community that has continued to celebrate and preserve its cultural heritage. Today, festivals like Diwali and Eid are celebrated with great enthusiasm, while Indian classical arts, music, and dance thrive.

“The Indian diaspora here celebrates all cultural festivals—Diwali, Dussehra, Navratri, Eid. We don’t feel like we are far from India,” Reshma remarks. Through her work, she has played a key role in helping these communities maintain a strong connection to their Indian roots. “The locals appreciate the richness of Indian culture, which includes traditional music, dance, festivals, and celebrations.”

Reshma’s academy, Ananthara Space of Arts, has become a hub for cultural preservation, not only for those of Indian origin but also for anyone interested in learning about Indian classical dance. Over the past eight years, she has conducted more than 30 online workshops and several offline events across the globe. Each year, students from various parts of the world gather to showcase Bharatanatyam through Ananthara, celebrating its endless beauty and depth.

Beyond teaching dance, Reshma’s work also extends to fostering cultural cooperation between India and Trinidad & Tobago. “Through the Mahatma Gandhi Institute For Cultural Co-operation, we promote bilateral cultural exchange,” she explains. “We teach Hindustani music, Bharatanatyam, Tabla, Harmonium, Yoga, and the languages Hindi and Sanskrit. All these activities provide a stable and robust connection to Indian culture.”

For Reshma, her work as a Bharatanatyam teacher in Trinidad & Tobago is more than just a profession—it’s a calling. “This dance form helps us stay connected to our culture and roots, and I feel honored to be a part of that,” she reflects.

You can read more about Reshma’s academy, Ananthara Space of Arts, and her incredible journey here: Ananthara Space of Arts