Queen Book Award Recognition Message Winning the prestigious Queen Book Award powered by Queen Times is a very emotional and proud moment for me. It is not just an award, but a meaningful recognition of my lifelong journey, dedication, and passion towards Bharathanatyam and the preservation of our traditional arts. I feel truly blessed and honoured to receive this recognition after many years of hard work, sacrifices, and commitment in teaching, performing, choreographing, and guiding students through the path of classical dance.

This achievement reminds me that every struggle, every challenge, and every effort was worthwhile. I dedicate this award to my beloved parents, my beloved family, my guru, whose guidance and blessings shaped me into the artiste and teacher I am today. I also share this honour with my students, supporters, and everyone who believed in my vision and stood beside me throughout this journey.

For me, Bharathanatyam is not merely an art form or profession, it is my soul, my devotion, and my spiritual connection to the Almighty. Receiving this honour motivates me even more to continue preserving our culture, inspiring future generations, and serving society through arts, education, and charity. I accept this recognition from Queen Book Award powered by Queen Times with deep humility, gratitude, and prayers to continue my journey with sincerity, purpose, and devotion towards the classical arts. "Every award is not the destination, but a reminder to continue serving art with humility, devotion, and love."

Dr. Mangalaswari Balakrishnan Founder & Artistic Director of Apsaras Nritya Natyalaya Dance Academy Dr. Mangalaswari Balakrishnan is a dedicated Bharathanatyam artiste, choreographer, and passionate educator who has devoted her life to preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Indian classical dance. A disciple of the legendary Late Guru Lakshman, she carries forward the timeless traditions, discipline, and spiritual essence of Bharathanatyam with deep respect and devotion.

With over 26 years of experience in the field of classical arts, Dr. Mangalaswari has established herself as a respected figure in the dance community through her exceptional artistry, graceful performances, and meaningful contributions to cultural preservation. She is the founder and artistic director of Apsaras Nritya Natyalaya Dance Academy, a dance institution that has nurtured and guided more than 60 students in their artistic journey. Throughout her career, she has performed on many prestigious stages across India, the United Kingdom, and Malaysia, captivating audiences with her expressive storytelling, traditional values, and soulful performances. Her choreographies beautifully blend classical purity with emotional depth, reflecting her unwavering commitment to the art form. Beyond the stage, Dr. Mangalaswari strongly believes in using art as a medium of service and compassion.

She has actively organized and participated in numerous charity performances and fundraising programs for temples, schools, medical aid initiatives, and community welfare projects. Her dedication extends further through her charitable efforts in teaching underprivileged children, ensuring that the beauty of classical dance reaches every soul regardless of background. For Dr. Mangalaswari, Bharathanatyam is not merely a profession or business — it is her life, her prayer, and her spiritual calling. She believes dance is a divine gift from the Almighty and humbly surrenders this sacred art at His lotus feet.

Her teaching philosophy focuses not only on technique and performance but also on discipline, humility, spirituality, and cultural values. Under her guidance, Apsaras Nritya Natyalaya Dance Academy continues to stand proudly as an institution deeply rooted in tradition while inspiring future generations to embrace and preserve the beauty of Indian classical arts. The academy is known for its commitment to authenticity, cultural integrity, and holistic artistic education, shaping students into confident performers and respectful individuals. Through every performance, every student, and every step of dance, Dr. Mangalaswari Balakrishnan continues her mission of keeping the sacred tradition of Bharathanatyam alive for generations to come.

"Bharathanatyam is not merely an art form — it is a spiritual journey, a prayer in motion, and a timeless bridge between tradition and the soul." Mission To preserve, promote, and pass on the rich heritage of Bharathanatyam through dedicated training, discipline, creativity, and cultural values. Apsaras Nritya Natyalaya Dance Academy strives to nurture students into confident, graceful, and passionate artists while instilling respect for tradition, spirituality, and artistic excellence. Vision To become a globally respected institution for Indian classical dance, inspiring future generations to embrace Bharathanatyam as both an art form and a way of life. The academy envisions creating empowered dancers who carry forward the beauty, culture, and timeless essence of Indian classical arts with pride and dedication.