KUSUM RAO
INDIAN CLASSICAL ARTIST AND CHOREOGRAPHER
INDIAN CLASSICAL ARTIST AND CHOREOGRAPHER
Kusum Rao is an Indian classical dancer trained in the traditions of Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam from a young age. Under the guidance of Smt. Mrinalini Sadananda in Kuchipudi and Smt. Shanthi Ashok in Bharatanatyam, she has cultivated a strong foundation in discipline, artistry, and creative expression. Rooted in authenticity and tradition, her training continues to shape her artistic voice both on and off the stage.
Through performances across diverse audiences, Kusum strives to share the joy, storytelling, and emotional depth of Indian classical dance. Her choreographic work thoughtfully weaves together the elegance and dynamism of both Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam, creating pieces that honor tradition while embracing innovation. As both a performer and creator, she is dedicated to expanding the reach of classical arts through meaningful and expressive storytelling.
TRAINING
Kalamandapam is a Gurukulam style school of Music and Dance based in Washington DC upon the vision of renowned Kuchipudi Dancer and Guru Smt. Mrinalini Sadananda. (Desciple of Guru Vempati Chinna Satyam.)
Kusum has been learning Kuchipudi under Kalamandapam since 2009, while traveling to India regularly to learn from established Gurus; Guru Satyapriya Ramana, Guru Balakondala Rao, Guru Bhagavatula Sarma, and Guru Aditya
She has since completed her Rangapravesam in 2018
Nrityanjali, founded under Guru Smt. Shanthi Ashok, imparts the traditional dance form of Bharatanatyam to young dancers, aiming to preserve the rich cultural heritage of India and at the same time integrate different dance styles to present a diverse audience. Our focus is to nurture the natural enthusiasm in our students and provide them a framework to showcase their talent.
Kusum has been learning under Nrityanjali dance school since 2010, and has learned from an esteemed lineup of Gurus; Guru N. Srikanth, Guru Indira Kadambi, Kavya Muralidharan, and Pritika Krishnakumar.
She has since completed her Arangetram in 2022.
Founded on the vision of bridging classical knowledge and modern innovation, Aria University offers a distinctive academic environment that integrates the intellectual traditions of East and West. Its programs bring together ancient wisdom and contemporary scholarship in ways that are both rigorous and forward-looking.
Kusum is currently completing her Diploma in Kuchipudi dance, with vast knowledge in the history, theatrical aspects, and foundations of Kuchipudi.
HIGHLIGHTS