For almost three decades, a local Johorean has been championing classical Indian dance not just in Malaysia but on the global stage. To the initiated, the name Ajith Bhaskaran Dass and his classical Indian dance academy Survana Fine Arts is synonymous with extraordinary talent and creativity that is heightened by sensitivity and deep spirituality. As the academy’s Artistic Director, Ajith has produced original and unique dance routines that combine authentic classicism with a touch of his unique flair.
Ajith left law practice almost 26 years ago to follow his passion for classical Indian dance. He was voted as the Best Male Dancer in the December season of the International Music and Dance Festival in Chennai, India by the Shankarabharanam Trust in 1996.
As a versatile performer and choreographer, Ajith has collected several accolades for his past work, including becoming the first male Indian Classical dancer to be featured in the 2000 International Arts Festival in Frankfurt, Germany. He is also the first Malaysian to perform at the famed Lincoln Centre and at the Joyce Theatre, as well as on Broadway, New York in 2003.