Bio of the collective: Arno Kamolika and Akshaya Surve are dance artists, choreographers, and instructors based in BC. They practice Bharatanatyam and Kathak respectively—two very distinct styles of Indian classical dance, each known for it’s unique aesthetic, each with its own complex history and tradition. Their work explores the interplay between these two forms of dance, blending stillness and movement from both, in a meaningful and rhythm-based dialogue. Arno and Akshaya have been collaborating for past one year, and have shared their work at Festival of Lights by Diwali Fest, 12 Minutes Max by The Dance Centre, with an upcoming performance at All Over The Map by New Works. Their collaboration seeks to tell stories that effectively convey the emotional depth of longing through rich sensory imagery we see in nature and encourages meaningful engagement between artists who are informed by the rich nuances of South Asian dance, poetry and music traditions.

Bio- Arno Kamolika: Arno is a BC-based dancer, choreographer, nattuvanar and teacher whose art bridges tradition and innovation. Deeply rooted in the classical language of Bharatnatyam and inspired by the mystic rhythms of her Bengali heritage, her performances weave poetry, music, and movement into stories that transcend cultures and time. Trained under renowned masters in both Bharatnatyam and Manipuri including Prof. C V Chandrasekhar, Jai Govinda, Bragha Bessel and Sharmila Banerjee, Arno draws upon diverse disciplines—music, theatre, mime, and design—to shape her choreographic voice. Arno has performed at festivals across the USA, Germany, India, and Bangladesh, with notable productions including Shyama (2015, 2018). Parasakti (2021-presented by Chan Centre Dot com series) and Skydancers (2024) by Anusha Fernando were her recent collaborative productions and she was a cast member of Svaha by Nova Dance. Arno is a deeply engaged educator who has served as an instructor at Chhayanaut (Dhaka-2002-2009) and Mandala Arts (Vancouver-2015-2025). Arno intends to create a holistic approach of learning dance through exposure to other discipline that promotes curiosity and a compassionate learning environment.

Bio- Akshaya Surve: Akshaya Surve is a Kathak performer and choreographer with over 20 years of training. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Performing Arts from the All India Music University Board (Akhil Bhartiya Gandharva Mahavidyalaya Mandal). Akshaya has been part of the award-winning musical Mughal-E-Azam and has performed in renowned productions such as Nazakat (NCPA) and Megh Malhar (Nehru Centre). Her work has taken her across India, Dubai, Singapore, Malaysia, Qatar, and Oman, promoting Indian classical dance on international stages. Since relocating to Vancouver in 2022, Akshaya has founded the Akshaya Kathak Academy, where she is cultivating new talent and building a vibrant Kathak community in Canada. Her Canadian performances include major festivals such as Vasantotsav, Surrey Fusion Festival, and Namaste Canada. She recently presented a bold new work, Draupadi, at The Dance Centre’s 12 Minutes Max.