The Guru(Teacher) - Hema Sharma was initiated into Bharathanatyam at the age of 8 by Kancheepuram Gnaprakasam and completed an undergraduate degree in Bharathanatyam under his tutelage. She pursued advanced training under such renowned gurus as Padmashri Adyar K. Lakshman in Nattuvangam and Srimati Shanta and V.P. Dhananjayan in dance. Since her arangetram at the age of 12, she has given over 500 performances in India and the United States. Over the course of her career as a dancer, Hema has been a dedicated performer, choreographer, teacher, and community volunteer, donating her time to spread the arts and culture of India throughout Kansas City. She is currently artistic director of Nriya - a school of Indian dance and music in Overland Park, KS with branches in Wichita, KS and Ames, IA.