Shamanthaka

Meet Shamanthaka, a remarkable 11-year-old Bharatanatyam practitioner hailing from Dharwad, Karnataka. He is the founder of The Adavu Drill Room, a non-profit online social initiative created to unite bharathnatyam practitioners in their daily Adavu mastery. Born into a family of musicians, Shamanthaka has exuded a deep passion for dance since the tender age of three.
Artistic Training & Mentorship
His journey in Bharatanatyam commenced under the expert guidance of his mother, Vidushi Smt. Savita Hegde, and he delved into the realms of Tabla and Mridangam under the tutelage of his father, Dr. Gopikrishna. Presently, he continues to hone his Bharatanatyam skills under the mentorship of Shri Athul Balu in Chennai.
Not only is Shamanthaka a talented Bharatanatyam dancer, but he is also making waves in acting, starring in a major Australian feature film releasing next year.
Awards & Recognition
Balasiri Award 2024: Secured first prize in the National level dance competition organised by Srikanteshwara Kala Kendra, Bangalore.
Yuva Kalakrithi Award 2025: Recognized for exceptional talent by the Dance Federation of India.
All India Radio Feature: Fortunate to have his interview aired on All India Radio Dharwad on his eleventh birthday.
Sports & Athletic Achievements
Beyond the performing arts, Shamanthaka has achieved accolades in professional skating, clinching the district championship title at the age of seven. His multifaceted talents and unwavering dedication exemplify his extraordinary journey as a young artist and athlete.
Major Performances
Shamanthaka has performed across prestigious platforms and festivals nationwide, including:
Krishna Gana Sabha, Chennai (Tripuranthara Dance Festival)
Natyanjali's Nartaka Festival, Bengaluru
Shivaarghya Male Dancers Festival, New Delhi.
Lil' Margazhi at Kuchupudi Art Academy, Chennai
All India Dance Festival, Kollam, Kerala (Organised by Dance Federation of India)
MES Dance Festival, Bengaluru
Kanasu Dance Festival, Bengaluru
Mysore Dasara Utsav
Canvas Dance Festival, Bengaluru
Nrityamrita Festival, Mangaluru
Nrityotsavam at Kollur Mookambika Temple
Samskrutika Saptaha at Sagara
Samaskruti's Mahashivratri Festival, Bengaluru