Ashok identified his passion for classical art forms and learned the nitty-gritty of dance from well-known gurus. He runs his dance school and has been teaching dance for the last 35 years.

Ashok Kumar is the artistic director of a dance school called Natyanjali School of Dance, based in Bengaluru. He is also a professional artist in Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, and Kathak. Ashok received his dance training from established dance gurus in Bengaluru.

Ashok shares that he and his father shared a dream of him pursuing an art form or becoming a professional dancer. Recalling his childhood, Ashok shares that it was at the tender age of eight that he started learning classical dance. He later graduated in Commerce from Vijaya College, but continued his passion for dance alongside.

Having observed Ashok’s dance skills, he was advised by his dance guru to open a dance school, which he agreed to. Thereafter, Ashok opened his dance school in 1986 with his guru’s support and encouragement.

Discussing his challenges, Ashok shares that one fine day he happened to visit a blind school, wherein he was requested by the school authorities to teach dance to the visually challenged students out there. Unsure of how he would take on such a big responsibility, Ashok was quite sceptical, but later decided to take a shot at it. To his amazement, he eventually understood and took note of their learning techniques and emerged successful in his efforts.

Talking about his achievements, Ashok shares that he is a pioneer for having introduced and implemented the touch and feel dance technique for the visually challenged in the field of classical dance. Ashok and his students have performed at the international level in countries like Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Canada, and the UK. One of his students was also honoured with a national award, which is also an achievement for him.

When asked about his mistakes, Ashok admits that he should have prioritised his solo shows rather than spending more time training dance aspirants. However, at the same time, he feels happy to have his students get recognition for their performances.

When feeling low, Ashok likes to listen to music and choreograph dances.