Guru Shri Elugai Roopathi

Guru Shri Elugai Roopathi is a highly respected and dedicated Bharatanatyam Guru, who has been nurturing young talents for over 11 years through his institution, the Rajamani Ammal Art Foundation. Under his guidance, the institution has become a center of excellence in the Kalaikovil style of Bharatanatyam, a dance form deeply rooted in tradition, known for its emphasis on precision, discipline, and cultural values. Through his unique teaching approach, Guru Roopathi uncovers the individuality of each student and molds them into skilled artists, guiding them toward prosperous dance careers.

His journey into the world of Bharatanatyam began at the tender age of 9, when he started training under the watchful eyes of his aunt, Rajamani Ammal, an accomplished dancer. He completed his Arangetram, a significant milestone in a Bharatanatyam dancer’s journey, under her tutelage. His artistic education expanded as he pursued further training with Smt. Nagaratna in Hubli, Karnataka. He then trained extensively under Guru Natyathilagam S. Murali at Sri Saraswathi Kalalaya in Coimbatore, refining his skills and learning the intricate nuances of the art form.

To deepen his knowledge, he earned his bachelor’s degree in Bharatanatyam, studying under the esteemed Guru Smt. Vijayalakshmi Parameshwaran at Lalit Kalashetra, Coimbatore. Beyond dance, Guru Roopathi’s passion for the classical arts led him to study Carnatic music under Vijayalakshmi Chandrasekaran at Sai Shruti Music Academy, enhancing his ability to choreograph and perform with a profound understanding of both music and dance.

Guru Roopathi’s talents are not confined to Bharatanatyam alone. This year, he also completed his Folk Arangetram, expanding his artistic expertise into traditional folk dance. His versatility as a choreographer and performer has earned him recognition, and his students are now making their mark in prestigious performances and events across the country.

In addition to his artistic pursuits, Guru Roopathi is a committed philanthropist. For the past seven years, he has been running the Rajamani Ammal Charitable Trust, contributing to the betterment of society by supporting education and the arts. His unwavering dedication, both as a teacher and as a cultural ambassador, continues to inspire and guide the next generation of Bharatanatyam dancers.

With over 150 students under his tutelage, Guru Roopathi remains a beloved teacher and a visionary leader, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of Indian classical dance.