+61 485 603 478info@chilankaschoolofdance.com.au

Feel the rhythm. Own it.

Every move tells a story. Every rhythm inspires a dream. Discover your passion for dance, build confidence, and express yourself through movement.

From classical elegance to modern beats, we help you turn your passion into performance.

Three classical Indian dancers in cream and red folk-art style, framed by floral borders
A classical Indian dancer in a red-toned collage with arches, a lantern, a peacock and elephants
About Us

Celebrating Dance, Culture & Tradition

Welcome to Chilanka School of Indian Dance, a vibrant dance academy in Brisbane, Australia, dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of Indian dance and culture. We bring together tradition, rhythm, creativity, and artistic expression in a welcoming environment where students of all ages can discover their passion for dance and develop their talents.

With five branches across Brisbane, Chilanka is passionate about nurturing aspiring dancers, building confidence, and inspiring the next generation through dedicated training and meaningful artistic experiences. Our involvement in community celebrations, Indian cultural festivals, and multicultural events provides students with valuable opportunities to perform on stage, showcase their abilities, and strengthen their connection to their cultural roots.

At Chilanka, we believe dance is more than an art form — it is a beautiful expression of identity, discipline, storytelling, and community spirit. By preserving traditional art forms while encouraging creativity and individuality, we aim to create a space where every student can grow, express themselves, and experience the joy of performing. Our mission is to keep the beauty of Indian dance traditions alive while celebrating cultural diversity and inspiring generations to come.

Our Mission & Vision

Preserving Tradition, Inspiring Generations

Our Mission

To inspire and nurture dancers of all ages through quality dance education, celebrate cultural diversity, and preserve the rich heritage of Indian dance. We strive to build confidence, encourage artistic expression, and create meaningful opportunities for students to grow through learning, cultural participation, and stage performances.

Our Vision

To keep the beauty of Indian dance traditions alive for generations to come by making them accessible, inspiring future generations of dancers, and sharing our cultural heritage with Brisbane’s diverse community and beyond. We envision a future where dance continues to connect people, celebrate identities, and bring cultures together.

Behind Chilanka

Meet Your Instructor

Joby Kalabhavan teaches every class and looks after everything at Chilanka, bringing years of training, performance experience and a love for sharing Indian dance with every student.

Joby Kalabhavan, choreographer and dance instructor

Joby Kalabhavan

Professional Choreographer | Dance Instructor | Stage Performer

Joby Kalabhavan is an accomplished choreographer, dance instructor, and stage performer with over 30 years of excellence in dance and performing arts and an impressive international career. Having spent 15 years with the prestigious Cochin Kalabhavan, he has performed on nearly 1,000 stages across 26 countries, bringing his passion for dance to audiences worldwide. In Kerala, he has worked extensively with schools and colleges, guiding students to achieve first-place honours in state-level youth festivals and university competitions. His expertise also extends to celebrity training and music album choreography.

Now based in Brisbane, Australia, Joby continues to inspire aspiring dancers through five dance studio locations, offering professional training in Bharatanatyam, Semiclassical, Bollywood, Western, and Folk Dance. Driven by a passion for preserving cultural heritage while embracing modern dance styles, his mission is to nurture talent, build confidence, and help every student discover the joy of dance.

Black and white photo of a classical Indian dancer in a flowing skirt, arms raised under a spotlight
Since 2023

Our Journey

What began as a small circle of dancers in Brisbane has grown into a community united by tradition, rhythm and the joy of performing.

  1. 2023

    Where it all began

    Chilanka School of Dance opens its doors in Brisbane, with a simple wish: to share classical Indian dance with a welcoming, close-knit community.

  2. Soon after

    Our first stage

    Our first annual showcase gives students the chance to perform before family and friends, turning months of practice into applause.

  3. Along the way

    Into the community

    Students take part in community cultural festivals, carrying the beauty of Indian dance to new audiences across Brisbane.

  4. Today

    A growing dance family

    With over 10,000 students trained, 1,000+ stage performances and a team of devoted instructor, our journey continues with every new dancer who joins us.

Milestones & Moments

Our Achievements

From first steps in the classroom to applause on stage, every award, performance and milestone reflects the dedication of our students and teachers.

30+
Years of teaching
10,000+
Students trained
1,000+
Stage performances
50+
Awards & recognitions
40+

Programs Successfully Delivered

Over 40 dance programs have been planned, rehearsed and brought to life by our students and teachers, from classical Bharatanatyam and Mohiniyattam recitals to folk, Bollywood and cultural showcases across Brisbane. Each one is a full journey of dedicated practice, thoughtful choreography and the joy of performing before a live audience.

Painting of a classical Indian dancer in a red and gold costume striking a pose

Join Our Dance Family

Take the first step on your dance journey. Whether you are a complete beginner or ready to refine your skills, there is a place for you at Chilanka. Enrol today and become part of a community that celebrates rhythm, culture and joy.

Enrol Now