About
Biography
T. D. Rajendra, born on July 16, 1965, in Bengaluru, Karnataka, is a distinguished Indian classical dancer, performer, choreographer, producer, and director. He received rigorous training in Kathak from Maya Rao, Kumudini Lakhia, and Arjun Mishra, and in Bharatanatyam under U. S. Krishnarao, Chandrabhaga Devi, Kalamandalam Radhika, and Narmada. His understanding of classical theory was further strengthened through his formal study of the Natyashastra under the guidance of Sundari Santanam and Padma Subrahmanyam.
Over a career spanning more than three decades, T. D. Rajendra has emerged as a leading figure in contemporary Indian classical dance, known for his ability to retain traditional integrity while exploring new choreographic frameworks. Alongside his artistic partner Nirupama Rajendra, he co-founded the Abhinava Dance Company, which has become a prominent platform for creative and experimental dance practice. Through Abhinava, he has presented original productions that blend classical Indian movement vocabularies with modern narrative structures and global aesthetic influences.
T. D. Rajendra has toured extensively in India and abroad, performing at prestigious international dance festivals and participating in lecture-demonstrations organized by major cultural institutions, including those under the aegis of the Sangeet Natak Akademi. His work reflects sustained artistic inquiry, technical discipline, and a commitment to expanding the expressive possibilities of Indian classical dance.
His contributions have been recognized with several honors, including the Karnataka Kalashree Award, the Nrithya Choodamani Award, and the Governor’s Commendation for Outstanding Contribution to Indian Dance in Oklahoma. In 2023, T. D. Rajendra received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for Creative and Experimental Dance, acknowledging his significant role in shaping contemporary classical dance practice.