ABOUT THE PERFORMER (SLOKA IYENGAR, PHD)
Sloka (pronounced “Shloka”) is a neuroscientist and practitioner of Bharatanatyam, passionate about relieving suffering through the sciences and the arts. Her dance practice manifests in three main ways: 1. Continuing to learn Bharatanatyam, music, and Sanskrit from her gurus; 2. Creating works on the convergence of the sciences and the arts; and 3. Creating the foundation to use Bharatanatyam for creative aging. 
As a scientist consultant, she works in the fields of mental health, the epilepsies, and palliative care. She teaches at The American Museum of Natural History and St. Joseph’s University. 
 

"We are who we are because someone took care of us". This sentiment is the inspiration for Īkṣaṇa ("Caregiving") - a series of recitals planned for Fall 2025. The word Īkṣaṇa (ईक्षण) means "sight" or "vision", and also "caring", highlighting the close connection between observing a need and taking care of someone with that need.

Through Bharatanatyam, Sloka will share caring for our communities, each other, ourselves, nature, the dance form and its heritage. These four recitals will present different pieces.