Kalakshetra Foundation, Chennai

Founded

1936

Founder

Rukmini Devi Arundale

Timings

8:30 am to 11:30 am

Photography

Not permitted

Campus

About 100 acres

Distance from airport

About 16 km

The story behind Kalakshetra

Rukmini Devi Arundale wanted a place where young people would learn the arts and, through them, grow into thoughtful citizens. Encouraged by Dr Annie Besant and by her husband Dr George Arundale, she started the institution in 1936. It soon drew students, dancers, musicians and teachers from across India and abroad.

The Government of India has given Kalakshetra the status of an Institute of National Importance, and it remains a reference point for classical dance and music training.

What you will see

The campus covers close to 100 acres near the Adyar seafront. Besides college-level programmes covering dance, music and the visual arts, there are two schools on the grounds, reflecting the founder's belief that art and general education belong together.

Children join from the age of seven and many live in hostels run on the old gurukulam model, with an emphasis on simple living and discipline. Visitors can often see classes in progress in open-sided halls under the trees.

Visiting hours and rules

Visitors are allowed in from 8:30 am, and the campus closes to them at 11:30 am. Photography and video recording are not allowed, so leave the camera in your bag and keep voices low near the classrooms. Dress modestly, as this is a working school.

How to reach

Chennai International Airport is about 16 km away, usually under an hour by taxi. Chennai Central and Chennai Egmore railway stations are at a similar driving distance. From the Koyambedu bus terminal the ride along the 100 Feet Road also takes under an hour. Autos and city buses serve Adyar as well.

Tips for your visit

Plan to arrive soon after opening so you have enough time before the 11:30 am close. Combine the visit with other south Chennai stops such as the Adyar area and the East Coast Road. If you are interested in watching a formal performance, check the institution's own events calendar before you travel; we are happy to help fit one into your Chennai plan.

Also nearby