Posted by Umesh (68.36.215.74) on June 22, 2005 at 03:06:10:

 After almost 15 years of dancing, I find myself wanting to learn the art of nattuvangam, but I'm not quite sure how to go about this. I don't want to start too soon (before I have solidified my technique in more adavus) but I would like to start looking into it. I reside in New Jersey and am searching for some teachers to keep in mind for the future. Also, if I do go to India, how long would I have to stay there to get at least the basics of nattuvangam down, and who would be some good teachers in Bangalore/Chennai? Final question... I am trained in the Vazhuvoor style, and I have heard of jathis being recited or choreographed in a style particular to the style of dance... so should this influence my decision about a teacher?