Hello,
I am Karen punneckal, a creative individual whose life was forever changed by the power of dance.
With over two decades of training & experience in Bharathanatyam, an art form that has been my journey, my passion, and my purpose- it has provided me with a profound foundation and a seamless entry into the realm of dance.
Dance has been an integral part of my being, and I've had the privilege of exploring its many facets.
As a performer, I've had the honor of gracing stages across India and internationally, with unforgettable shows in Nepal and Thailand. The rush of adrenaline while performing on the stage is an exhilarating experience that never gets old.
But what I cherish most about dance is the way it has transformed my life. There have been moments when I felt lost and broken, especially after losing someone dear to me. It was during those darkest times that I found myself deepening my love for Bharatanatyam. The rigorous training, the emotional expression, and the sense of community all came together to lift me up and show me the beauty of life again.
If not for dance, I wouldn't know the joy of being surrounded by loving family, friends, and fellow dancers. Dance taught me that it chooses you, and in doing so, gives you a piece of yourself that you never knew existed. It's a gift that's yours alone, a sense of identity and purpose that I cherish every day.
My dance journey has been shaped by various influences, including my time at College, where I explored other styles like Bollywood, Contemporary, Hip-Hop, and Belly Dancing. This exposure broadened my perspective, and I began to appreciate the beauty of diverse dance forms.
In addition to performing, I've also had the joy of teaching for over 8 years, guiding students on their own dance journeys and watching them grow into expressive artists. My teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of technique, creativity, and self-expression, and I strive to create a supportive, nurturing environment that fosters growth and learning.
In 2017, I founded the Richard Punneckal School of Art in loving memory of my brother. My mission is to share the rich heritage of Bharatanatyam with the next generation, who are growing up in a fast-paced world that often forgets the value of tradition, mindfulness, and patience.At our space, young and old alike can delve into the beauty and depth of dance, cultivating presence, and slowing down to breathe in the moment.
Life's circumstances have also motivated me to pay it forward to the community that has given me so much - a strong sense of identity and the resilience to persevere through challenges. I firmly believe that every artist deserves an equal opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances. It's my desire to bridge the gaps that often hinder talented artists from reaching their full potential.
As one of the founding members and Secretary of KALASEVE, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and uplifting artists, I'm committed to creating a community that fosters collaboration, inspiration, and growth.
Throughout my journey, I've come to realize that dance is more than just movement – it's a powerful tool for personal growth, self-expression, and transformation. I believe that it has the ability to shape not just performers, but people, building character & strength along the way.
As I reflect on my journey, I hope to have made a lasting impression that would make my parents and the little wide-eyed Karen -I once was - Proud.