Pia Sutaria: A Ballet Luminary’s Voyage from Global Stages to Cultivating Dance Dreams in India

Rudra Komala
3 min readDec 5, 2023

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In the realm of dance, few luminaries shine as brightly as Pia Sutaria. A Royal Academy of Dance graduate, Pia has graced stages worldwide with India’s premier Dance Theatre Company, “Navdhara.” Her achievements as a soloist at prestigious venues like Mumbai’s National Centre for Performing Arts and Royal Opera House, coupled with representing brands such as Dove, Jockey, Puma, and Nike, speak volumes about her prowess as a dancer and performer. Recently awarded a Disney Scholarship for her MA in Musical Theatre Performance at the Royal Academy of Music, London, Pia’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

A Global Dance Ambassador

Pia’s journey as a dancer has transcended borders, showcasing her talent on international platforms. As a soloist with “Navdhara,” she mesmerized audiences in the USA, Turkey, Israel, Canada, and Japan. Her ability to seamlessly blend classical and modern dance forms reflects a true artist’s versatility. The global stage has become her canvas, and with each performance, Pia leaves an indelible mark on the world of dance.

Nurturing Talent at Home

Beyond her accomplishments, Pia is on a mission to bridge the gap in vocational dance training for young artists in India. The establishment of the “Institute of Classical and Modern Dance” in 2018 stands as a testament to her commitment. The institute has successfully sent students on scholarships to renowned performing arts institutions in Paris, New York, and London, showcasing Pia’s dedication to making ballet accessible to all aspiring artists in her homeland.

A Family of Artists

Pia’s connection to the arts runs deep within her family. As the twin sister of Bollywood actor Tara Sutaria, creativity seems to flow through their veins. Pia reflects on her earliest attraction to the arts and how her family’s unwavering support has been the bedrock of her illustrious career. The synergy between her family’s artistic pursuits and her journey adds a layer of richness to the narrative of Pia’s life.

Ballet in India

As a resident Ballet teacher at Shiamak Davar’s Institute, Pia has a front-row seat to witness the growing interest in ballet within India. She delves into the challenges and triumphs of introducing this classical art form to a diverse and culturally rich audience. Pia shares insights into whether India is ready to fully embrace ballet and how the dance landscape is evolving in the country.

Conclusion

In this captivating episode of our podcast, Pia Sutaria takes us on a journey through the soul-stirring world of dance, sharing personal anecdotes, triumphs, and challenges. Her commitment to nurturing young talent in India and her reflections on the intersection of ballet and the Indian cultural landscape provide a unique perspective. As Pia talks about the legacy she envisions, it becomes clear that her impact extends far beyond the stage. Pia Sutaria is not merely a dancer; she is a cultural ambassador, a mentor, and an artist on a mission to inspire and uplift through the universal language of dance. In this episode, we glimpse into the life of a dance maestro, leaving us inspired and enlightened by the beauty of artistic expression and the unwavering spirit of Pia Sutaria.

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