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SIWSSouth Indians' Welfare Society

From KG to PG — Inspiring Excellence Since 1934

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SIWS Arts, Fine Arts & Philosophy Centre

Nurturing young minds through language, music, dance and timeless wisdom

Free Saturday classes for SIWS School students

About the Centre

Started in the academic year 1997–98 under the South Indians’ Welfare Society, the SIWS Arts, Fine Arts & Philosophy Centre was founded with a noble aim: to nurture young minds through culture, creativity and values. We seek to enhance each student’s intellectual and emotional growth by encouraging self-expression, building analytical skills and fostering a deeper appreciation of culture, ideas and the human condition.

Since its inception, the Centre has offered a holistic education that blends languages, music, dance and philosophy. Classes are held every Saturday throughout the academic year, so students can balance their studies with cultural learning. Every course is optional and completely free of cost for SIWS students.

What we teach

Arts – Classical Languages

A unique feature of the Centre is its focus on multilingual exposure. Learning Tamil, Malayalam and Sanskrit helps students appreciate India’s linguistic diversity and cultural richness.

  • Tamil
  • Malayalam
  • Sanskrit

Fine Arts – Music & Dance

Students train in classical music, instruments and dance under experienced, dedicated teachers.

  • Carnatic Vocal
  • Veena
  • Violin
  • Bharatanatyam

Philosophy

The Centre places special emphasis on Indian philosophy and culture through the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, guiding students towards moral values and disciplined living.

  • Bhagavad Gita: recitation, meaning and life lessons

Why join the Centre?

  • Free of cost: quality cultural education for every SIWS student, fully supported by the Society.
  • Experienced, dedicated teachers: learn from accomplished teachers in each subject.
  • Structured three-year course: systematic learning, with a certificate from the Centre on completion.
  • Every Saturday: classes designed to fit around regular studies.
  • Stage and competition opportunities: students take part in competitions, examinations and cultural events run by well-known organisations.
  • Recognition: annual awards for the best outgoing students in each section, sponsored by our well-wishers.
  • Values and confidence: the arts build discipline, focus, self-expression and pride in one’s culture.

Our journey

For more than 25 years, the Centre has contributed significantly to the cultural and moral development of SIWS students. Our students regularly take part in competitions, examinations and cultural events conducted by well-known organisations, showcasing their talent in languages, Carnatic music, veena, violin, Bharatanatyam and Bhagavad Gita recitation.

Many have gone on to excel in their chosen fields. 48 students have successfully completed the full three-year programme and received the Centre’s certificate, and each year our sponsors present awards to the best outgoing student in every section.

The Centre is led by Mrs. Bhavana Narayanan, Head, together with a team of eminent, experienced and dedicated teachers.

Our teachers

  • Mrs. Bhavana NarayananHeadM.A., B.Ed. in Sanskrit
  • Mrs. Priya Rohit NeroySanskrit TeacherM.A. in Sanskrit
  • Dr. Mahalakshmi V.Tamil TeacherPhD in Economics, M.A. in Econometrics, MPhil in Economics, M.Ed. in Economics, MBA (HR), Diploma in Labour Law, Diploma in Tamil
  • Mrs. Rekha RaveendranMalayalam TeacherM.A. in Malayalam Language & Literature
  • Mrs. RamalakshmiVocal TeacherB.Sc. (B.Music), Diploma in Music
  • Mr. Vinit SawantVeena TeacherShanmukhananda Exam (3 Years) | 4 Years’ Experience
  • Miss Kimaya Shantaram KambleBharatanatyam TeacherMasters in Performing Arts (Bharatanatyam)
  • Sampada Shivani Rajesh TambeBharatanatyam TeacherM.A. in Bharatanatyam, B.A. Visharad in Bharatanatyam
  • Mr. Sekhar Janardhan TanjorkarViolin TeacherTraining Through – Guru–Shishya Parampara | National & International Awardee

Looking ahead

We are expanding. With renewed energy, the Centre plans to:

  • add new subjects and programmes to the ones we teach today
  • hold demonstrations, workshops and cultural events open to students and parents
  • offer flexible timings and additional classes where needed
  • bring modern teaching methods alongside traditional practice
  • introduce more recognition, awards and scholarships for dedicated students
  • welcome greater involvement from parents and the wider community

The Centre will continue to inspire and shape future generations while preserving our rich heritage.