Natyabhoomi School of Dance was founded by Ms. Deepti Mukund Navile in 1994. Her sister Shruthi Mukund joined as Co-Artistic Director in 2001. The school is the fruit of their passion and dedication, offering quality instruction in the Mysore style of Bharathanatyam — the South Indian classical dance form — and Indian folk dances. Classes are held in Potomac, Maryland.
Currently, Shreya Navile serves as Associate Artistic Director and Dakshi Pillai as Teaching Associate, continuing a tradition of mentorship and artistic excellence.
For most students, who come primarily from the South Asian diaspora, Natyabhoomi is far more than a dance school. It is a second home — a place of sisterhood, cultural celebration, and unapologetic expression of Indian identity. Many alumni who are now adults remain in close touch and return to the Natyabhoomi family.
Natyabhoomi offers classes for all ages and expects a minimum commitment of two classes per week. This commitment grows as students deepen their knowledge, take on performances, or prepare for a Rangapravesha.
The school has successfully hosted 38 Rangapraveshas since 2003 — the formal solo debut recital that marks a dancer's coming-of-age. The most recent was Maithri Verma (2025).
Regular dance intensives, workshops, and "Natya" — the annual summer dance camp — keep students challenged and inspired. Guest teachers and visiting artists are brought in frequently, and students are encouraged to participate in all productions and community events.
Natyabhoomi's specialty is choreographing innovative pieces that use contemporary music or movements while preserving the essence of the traditional style. The school has presented unique thematic productions and dance dramas including Yatra, Surya, Meghdhoot, Andal, Kumara Sambhavam, Geetha Govindam, Ritumala, Om, Eka, Ishani, The Girl Child Project, and Rukmini Kalyanam.
Students are taught all aspects of producing a show and given opportunities to assist during live performances — nurturing the next generation of complete artists.
Natyabhoomi organises the annual Maha Shivarathri Dance Festival — an all-night event at the Sri Siva Vishnu Temple in Greenbelt, MD. One of the most beloved events in the DC Indian arts calendar.
Natyabhoomi has hosted distinguished visiting artists including Guru Smt. Lalitha Srinivasan, Gurus Smt. Sandhya and Sri Kiran Subramaniam, Guru Bhanumati, Guru Swapnasundari, Guru Vasundara Doraiswami, the Narendra and Anusha dance duo, the Nritarutya contemporary dance ensemble, Srikanth Natarajan, and Praveen Kumar.