M.R.Krishnamurthy, grandson of late Rao Sahib M.Rama Rao of Bangalore, has learned his dance in the renowned dance school - Kalakshetra. He underwent rigorous and disciplined training under Smt.Rukmini Devi for more than ten years. he was initiated into the intricacies of Kathakali by Chandu Panikar. Besides, he was the recipient of the Government of India Scholarship for Talented Dancers for a period of three years, during which he was trained under Rukmini Devi for two years and one year under Gowri Ammal. He has also participated in nearly all Smt.Rukmini Devi's Dance dramas.
As a junior dancer, he is a recipient of the award under the Madras State Sangeetha Natakam Sangham Scheme of the Annual Grant-in-Aid to music sabhas for the encouragement of talented artists. He was conferred, the title of Kalashri by the Government of Karnataka in 1998 for his dedicated service and commitment to fine arts. The Bangalore Gayan Samaja recognizing his immense contribution to the art form, has honored him as the Artiste of the year 2000. Recognising his dedication and his sincerity, he was conferred with the title Natya Tapasvi at Sagara in 2001 and Sangeeta Suma Latha Natya Rasa Rushi at Davangere in 2002. Known for his unerring sense of rhythm and music, He has executed many a performance with ease and grace. He is a perfectionist, where his art is concerned, whether it is Nritha or Nritya. Sri.Krishnamurthy's arresting dance patterns as a critic puts it, as a feast to one's eyes. An able nd competent teacher, he is dedicated to the art.
Nesting sedately in Bangalore's busy Basavanagudi is Kalakshithi - an institution devoted to imbibing and nurturing the artistic spirit. Founded in 1991, Kalakshithi pervades dedication and commitment to the fine arts.
It is this spirit of utter dedication that has been transferred to Kalakshithi. Prof.Krishnamurthy's own school in Bangalore. Prof.Krishnamurthy's mission statement is Perfection in Performance. Uncompromising, where quality is concerned. Kalakshithi has already made a mark as an institution of high caliber in the performing arts.
On entering the portals of this revered institutions, one is put through a six-years course demanding and rigorous in nature. During the course of training, besides getting a sound knowledge and understanding of the theory of Dance, the young dancers are exposed to the best in dance through workshops and lecture demonstrations conducted by experts. Kalakshithi believes in a holistic approach to the learning of dance and a course in Karnatic Vocal Music is a must for every aspiring dancer. Besides this a course in make-up for the stage by the professional artistes is also on the cards. Thus at the end of six years a student is a complete dancer. The school has on its rolls about 100 students who are categorized according to age and ability. Classes start early in the morning and go on till late in the evening. Prof. Krshnamurthy, is ably assisted by a team of senior dancers towards the achievement of his vision which is to build an institution as great as Kalakshetra. Besides Bharathanatyam regular sitar classes by one of the greatest teacher Ustad Balekhan are regularly conducted. The ambience of Kalakshithi is unique. An open air stage set among whispering greenery has endowned it with its own natural charm. Subdued, ethnic, artistic motifs in and around the theatre contribute to a quiet serenity adding to the spirit of Kalakshithi. The institution is ably managed by Smt.Rukma Narain, administrator of the school. A managing committee of trustees is involved in the functioning of this Temple of Art in its Uncompromising strife for excellence and perfection. | 
