Nrityangan Cultural Academy was founded in 2001 by Smt. Rituparna Mukherjee as a way to share her passion for the fine arts. The Academy is affiliated with Pracheen Kala Kendra, a renowned educational organization dedicated to the promotion and preservation of the arts. Nrityangan offers classical Kathak and modern Bollywood training for students age 5 through adults. The founder and Creative Director, Ritu, provides individualized instruction in order to give each student the best possible learning experience. She nurtures each student's strengths and skills while building their cultural identity. All students at Nrityangan participate in cultural festivals throughout the year, such as the annual Festival of India in Charlotte. Additionally, they perform in Nrityangan’s annual recital and fundraiser, which raises funds for local and global organizations. Last year, the recital raised over $40K for Maiti Nepal and Treehouse Children’s Advocacy Center. At the end of their training, those on the kathak track undergo a Rang Manch Pravesh (graduation ceremony) to demonstrate their technical strength, innate skill and grace. Nrityangan is also available to choreograph dances for private events and weddings.