List of Documented Graduates and Engagements in 1st Order – Hetal Joshi Nagaraj.
Academic Year 2007 – 2008 – DFW, Texas USA From Company’s Launch Initiatives to Till Date
2008 To Till date — 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
This represents success of their respective program itself. These candidates became Elites much later! Does not have to be an Elite.
Some 13+ students’ bio of previous activities – as per their submission at first point of contact to Grace And Grooves Website, Or Blog Contact Page.
Dancers may or may not come to eachothers’ location or may not even know each other as It’s Ms. Exclusive to Hetal Joshi Nagaraj while some would meet only in rehearsals. Hetal Joshi Nagaraj had 6 locations by herself throughout from 2005-2006.
Irving-Las Colinas Rehearsals were/are held seperately for that side in Las Colinas or directly on stage. Similarly, activities in Arlington Fortworth are carried seperately for rehearsals.
Company never had any staff until G2. All are own trained students in entire different pathways while all graduate as well.
It is normal for company to push in one universal candidate’s picture among other participants just to fill in-appearance of collages because of photo waivers (limited pictures) — preferably the one who has performed and participated with every single of them or with leadership in company’s portfolio. E.g. – Thesettys, Jr. Digivijay or Jinal Shah. Mansi in case of most Lewisville Elites or Hetal’s own.
Grace And Grooves Corp. is known to have multi-generational families because of its parents program and family packages. Some journeys were initiated from Couples classes!
00. Nepali Siblings –
- Progressed through Regular Programs, Company Workshops, and advanced training pathways, growing from beginner-level dance experience to solo performances and Elite Performance Lines.
- Trained in Nepali Folk Dance, Bollywood Dance, Indian Folk Dance, and Borderline Indian Folk Fusion.
- Participated in early Grace And Grooves curriculum development, University Enrichment Programs, and Grace Creations academic cultural initiatives (2010–2013, South Irving, Texas).
- Performed in local cultural programs during the early years before formal recital productions were introduced. Represented Grace And Grooves and Ms. Hetal Nagaraj’s artistic vision through regional opportunities, including West Coast representation.
- Benefited from Ms. Hetal Nagaraj’s independent training methodology, international education experience, and multidisciplinary mentorship.
- Was part of the early foundation that evolved into Texas All-Star Programs, creating pathways from beginner training to advanced performance opportunities.
0.5 Srinija Burra, Siri Bylappa –
- Progressed through Regular Programs, Company Workshops, and structured training, moving from no prior dance experience to solo performances before temporarily pausing dance training.
- Participated in the early growth phase of Grace And Grooves registration, brand launch initiatives, and Grace Creations programs (an academic/cultural enrichment concept inspired by G2, designed as non-commercial programming).
- 1st – 2nd Line of Students-batches of Bollywood Dance Program initiatives, along with community visibility through Dallas News and local publications.
- Participated in cultural performances and community showcases during the early years in Las Colinas, Texas, before Grace And Grooves introduced formal recital productions.
- Experienced the foundation years of Grace And Grooves, when performances were primarily through local cultural events, community programs, and enrichment showcases.
Company’s first recital was 2015-2016. Dance of Gods And was a fundraiser too. Ms. Hetal’s fundraisers.
001. Nirja Setty –
- Training and rehearsal locations included South Irving, Southlake, Plano, Carrollton, FM West Frisco, and Lewisville, Texas, USA.
- Achieved 10 consecutive years of award-winning competition participation across multiple genres, including Bollywood, Bharatanatyam, and various Indian Folk Dance.
- Represents the Grace And Grooves philosophy of excellence, discipline, balance, cultural depth, and artistic growth.
- Despite project interruptions during 2021–2022 due to unforeseen organizational challenges affecting planned photography, videography, and cinematography documentation, her artistic journey and achievements remained an important part of Grace And Grooves’ documented student success history. Continues to perform with Grace And Grooves teams under the exclusive artistic direction and mentorship of Hetal Joshi Nagaraj.
- Graduate Year: 2024–2025
002. Mansi Chauhan – Regular Programs, Company Workshops and in between – Bollywood, Dance Dramas, Bollywood Folk and Some Folk. Best known as NJHS scholar path success and several initiatives within the company and made it to documented company timeline. As per bio submitted by parents – 3 months of dance with Arya International – Flower Mound – Beginners Level (Ms. Vanita Patel) in elementary years, then long break and moved to Ms. Hetal’s neighborhood at age of 12 direct NJHS scholar pathways. Elite.
In person International Dancer. Achievements, honor and pride. FM West Frisco for rehearsals, Texas, USA, and Lewisville, Texas, USA. Grad Year – 2023 – NJHS, Scholar Path Contract Completed in FULL. Exclusive – Hetal Joshi Nagaraj.
003. Samarth Setty –
- Began training with Grace And Grooves through Regular Programs and Company Workshops from age 3, progressing from no prior dance experience to solos, Elite Performance Lines, and professional-level engagements.
- Recognized as a key multidisciplinary performer representing the breadth of the curriculum, with training in Kalaripayattu, Contemporary Creative Mixed Martial Arts, Bharatanatyam Margam, Indian Folk, Drama, Hip Hop, Jazz, International Folk Dance, Stage Craft, and creative media exposure.
- Achieved 8 consecutive years of award-winning competition success across multiple genres with recognized performances and standing ovations.
- A documented Grace And Grooves success story, contributing as a key performer through team productions, international dancer engagements, and artistic milestones under the exclusive direction of Hetal Joshi Nagaraj.
- Training Locations: South Irving, Southlake, Carrollton, Plano, Lewisville & FM West Frisco, Texas, USA.
- Graduate Year: 2023–2024.
003.1 Deepthi Chandrasekaran – Regular Programs – Bollywood – from no bollywood dance to solos.
- As per bio submitted on website – Bharatanatyam Dancer (was formerly trained in Bharatanatyam from chennai), want to dance. Elite. In several launch programs of All star international-talented dancers platform and Texas All Star for administrative pathways. Achievements, honor and pride. Las Colinas, Texas, USA. Grad Year – 2018-2019.
- Performs with Sindhu for company. Exclusive – Hetal Joshi Nagaraj. Deepthi never came to Lewisville or any locations(small kids). Barely could come to perform.
003.2 Sindhu Jampala –
- Regular Programs, Company Workshops and in between. Bollywood and Semi Classical Fusions, known for consistent performance in company throughout the years, and now – with own kids too! As per bio submitted on site – some college experience in dance. Elite.
- In Brand Launch programs of several official brands. Achievements, honor and pride. Las Colinas, Texas, USA. Grad Year – 2021-2023. Performs with company and her own kids groups. Exclusive – Deepthi Chandrasekaran under Hetal Joshi Nagaraj.
004. Ashna Pethe –
- Began training with Grace And Grooves through Regular Programs and Company Workshops at age 8–9, progressing from no prior dance experience to solo performances and Elite-level training.
- Recognized as one of the strongest recurring names across Grace And Grooves programs, particularly within Recreational and Multi-Genre categories.
- Achieved 5+ years of consecutive competition wins, demonstrating dedication, consistency, and artistic growth across multiple performance styles.
- A notable Grace And Grooves milestone graduate, representing the organization’s pathway of developing students from beginners into confident performers through structured training and mentorship.
- Grad Year – 2024.
005. Pooja Natesan –
- Refreshers Program and Company Workshops, becoming one of the most notable milestones of Grace And Grooves’ adult refresher pathway.
- A 21+ Elite performer, with a strong foundation in Bharatanatyam training from college years and renewed performance development through Bollywood and fusion training.
- Joined the program to rebuild stage confidence, refine technique, and continue artistic growth, demonstrating that performing arts development is a lifelong journey.
- Recognized with achievements, honors, and pride as part of the Grace And Grooves artistic community, performing with the company when available.
- Grad Year: 2023–2024 (Refreshers Program – Graduation Not Applicable)
Training/Rehearsal Locations: Plano, Carrollton, Lewisville, and FM West Frisco, Texas, USA
Exclusive Artistic Direction: Hetal Joshi Nagaraj
005.1 Pandya Brothers – Grace Effects Only. Company Production and Recital Gigs only. Elite. 18+. Achievements, honor and pride. Venues only. Not Applicable. Exclusive – Hetal Joshi Nagaraj. Not the part of internships but often a custom crew. Thus no picture.
005.2 Riya Kurian –
- Regular Programs and Annual Recital Programs, with a focus on Bharatanatyam training and stage performances.
- Selected solo performances became part of Grace And Grooves’ company portfolio documentation, highlighting her artistic growth and presentation skills.
- Contributed to brand launch programs for the company’s new costume collections, including performance shoots, costume showcases, and creative documentation.
- A valued graduate representing the impact of structured training, recital experiences, and artistic opportunities provided through Grace And Grooves.
- Grad Year – 2022-2023.
005.3 Akhil Sukavasi –
- Regular Programs, Culture and Community Packages in Las Colinas, progressing from an absolute beginner to competition-level performer within approximately 1.5 seasons through intensive training schedules ranging from weekly classes to 3–4 sessions per week, including extended 2–3 hour rehearsals.
- Participated in Annual Recitals, Productions, Commercial Productions, Competitions, and Cultural Community Performances, including independent group performances through separate enrollment alongside regular training under Hetal Joshi Nagaraj.
- Featured in key Grace And Grooves milestones including RG2 Launch Programs, Recital 2017 – Nritya Ki Masti, G2 Launch Programs, Commercial Productions, and Literature Series projects.
- Represents the organization’s ability to develop students through structured pathways, intensive mentorship, and performance-based learning opportunities.
- Grad Year – 2020-2021.
005.3. Bani Patel and Yashal Sarfaraz –
- Documented Graduate-Elites for Supplement Programs. Carrollton, Lewisville, FM West Frisco for rehearsals, Texas, USA. Exclusive – Hetal Joshi Nagaraj.
- Bani moved to Grace And Grooves Corp. for further trainings. Yashal until School only.
- Grad Year – 2018-2019.
006. Aayan Ale –
- Began training with Grace And Grooves through Regular Programs and Company Workshops from age 4.5, progressing from no prior dance experience to solo performances and Elite-level training.
- Recognized as one of the youngest achievers to receive Elite Status, leading to the creation of Mini Elite pathways for exceptional young performers demonstrating advanced dedication and ability.
- A multidisciplinary performer known for high-energy presentations, standing ovations, creativity, and independent choreography development. Continues to explore dance, create original movements, and stay connected with evolving performance trends.
- Achieved recognition through auditions and performances, while maintaining a balanced approach where the focus remained on artistic growth rather than competition participation alone.
- Represents the Grace And Grooves philosophy of nurturing young talent through mentorship, confidence building, and advanced performance opportunities.
- Graduate Year: 2023–2024
Training/Rehearsal Locations: Carrollton, Lewisville, and FM West Frisco, Texas, USA
Performs with Grace And Grooves public performances under the exclusive artistic direction of Hetal Joshi Nagaraj.
006.1 Aahana Marella –
- Began training with Grace And Grooves through Regular Programs and Company Workshops from age 4, progressing through multi-genre training, solos, and Elite-level performance opportunities.
- Recognized for impactful performances including Kalari Fusions, Bollywood, Tollywood, Indian Folk Dance, Contemporary Martial Arts-inspired presentations, Hip-Hop, and Commercial Hip-Hop.
- Participated in Private Packages, Progressive Folk Dance Workshops, Brand Launch Auditions, and Competitions, earning multiple recognitions and wins over several years.
- Known as a Frisco rising star, with standing ovations for dynamic fusion performances and a strong stage presence.
- Achieved Elite Status and early graduation (age 11–12), representing excellence, discipline, and artistic versatility.
- Currently on a dance pause while focusing on singing, continuing her family’s multi-generational musical interests and training background.
- Graduate Year: 2023–2024
Training/Rehearsal Locations: Carrollton, Lewisville, and FM West Frisco, Texas, USA
Additional Training: Two 12-hour Dhamaal Event Workshops
Exclusive Artistic Direction: Hetal Joshi Nagaraj
007. Audrey Martin –
- Began training with Grace And Grooves through Regular Programs and Company Workshops from age 4, progressing from no prior dance experience to solo performances and Elite-level training.
- Recognized as one of the youngest achievers to receive Elite Status, inspiring the development of Mini Elite pathways for exceptional young performers.
- A versatile young artist with strong performance ability, often compared to the early growth trajectory of advanced multidisciplinary students, with Bharatanatyam training paused due to relocation while continuing her dance journey.
- Achieved 3+ consecutive competition wins and demonstrated consistent growth through performances, dedication, and stage experience.
- Represents the Grace And Grooves philosophy of identifying and nurturing young talent through structured mentorship, advanced opportunities, and long-term artistic development.
- Graduate Year: 2023–2024
- Training/Rehearsal Locations: Carrollton, Lewisville, and FM West Frisco, Texas, USA
- Exclusive Artistic Direction: Hetal Joshi Nagaraj
007.1 Antonio Martin –
- Progressive Holiday Workshops Only, progressing from no prior dance experience to solos and confident stage performances at age 10.
- Trained across multiple disciplines including Hip-Hop, Kalaripayattu, Mixed Martial Arts, Dance Drama, Live Drama with Dialogues and Stage Craft, Bollywood, and Bhangra-Fusion Folk.
- Completed multiple intensive learning experiences through 40-hour workshops, 25-hour workshops, and 12-hour holiday workshops, demonstrating commitment, adaptability, and enthusiasm for performing arts.
- Represents how new talent can emerge rapidly through focused mentorship, structured workshops, and performance opportunities—sometimes achieving significant growth within a single season.
- Graduate Year: 2022–2023
Training/Rehearsal Locations: Carrollton, Lewisville, and FM West Frisco, Texas, USA
Exclusive Artistic Direction: Hetal Joshi Nagaraj
007.2. Dhanvin Kotru –
- Progressive Workshops and Regular Training, moving from no prior dance experience to solo performances and advanced stage opportunities.
- Trained in multiple disciplines including Hip-Hop, Commercial Hip-Hop, Kalaripayattu, Mixed Martial Arts, Dance Drama, Live Drama with Dialogues and Stage Craft, Bollywood, and Bhangra-Fusion Folk.
- Selected for multiple competition opportunities and recognized as a fast-emerging young performer who demonstrated significant growth within a short period of focused training.
- Hetal Joshi Nagaraj selected him as a featured dancer for the Bhoomi Trivedi sponsored program alongside Samarth Setty, but missed the show as his own instrument recital ran late on same day.
- Represents the Grace And Grooves philosophy that dedicated mentorship and structured opportunities can help new talent emerge rapidly and confidently.
- Graduate Year: 2023–2024
Training/Rehearsal Locations: Carrollton, Lewisville, and FM West Frisco, Texas, USA
Exclusive Artistic Direction: Hetal Joshi Nagaraj
008. Jinal Shah – From former PR company to dancer, from no dance to solos – Elite Line. Achievements, honor and pride. Southlake, Lewisville, Carrollton, Hybrid, Online. Arlington, Lewisville, Hybrid, Online. Grad Year – 2024-2025. Family – dancers in kathak, television, movies just like Ms Hetal’s extended families.
Represents company itself in other country – UK – London. Exclusive – Hetal Joshi Nagaraj
009. Jr Digivijay – – His journey started with couples classes and then Multiple Progressive Workshop Graduate, Private Packages, from no dance to solos & Elite Line – Mommy – Dad & Me / Parent Program. 20+. Elite Line.
Achievements, honor and pride. Lewisville, Carrollton, Hybrid, Online. Arlington, Lewisville, Hybrid, Online. Grad Year – 2024-2025. Represents company itself in East Coast. Exclusive – Hetal Joshi Nagaraj
009.1. Manya Kumari and Anushri Dinesh
Success of Online Lessons, later transitioned to Hybrid-Private Packages and a few group in-house workshops for in-house productions to perform with other teams and practices as duet during their move to DFW. Their goal was to complete it without foresaking fundamentals, just before 12th grade.
Anushri Dinesh – Not to confuse with Deepthi’s husband Dinesh or any affiliations.
- Following the Grace And Grooves curriculum, both students graduated in 2024–2025 and were recognized with an award at the Saroja Vaidyanathan Competition and various nominations internationally in online submissions as well as in person locally, reflecting their dedication and artistic growth. This choreography has won several awards in the past for one of Hetal Nagaraj’s Elite – Nirja Setty, Puja Natesan, Samarth Setty – for decades.
- Between 2022 and 2024, the duo also performed every Bharatanatyam repertoire item through Grace And Grooves’ commercial productions in 2 weekends, back to back and in 3 days, other than Grace And Grooves in-house recitals and productions gaining extensive industrial stage experience which automatically became Arangetram in front of 250 public audience. Since this was by billing and was also telecast LIVE in mall areas and city, it had to be flawlessly delivered. Non Stop dance run-time was 45 Mins in each production.
- The duo performed minimum Four Bharatanatyam repertoire items back to back as a margam demonstrations in 1 each segment of 45mins in 1 day-per show, which is a practice in most arangetrams as a minimalist approach.
- In 2024-2025, they completed their PR packages as well to understand about applications of their trainings and usability. Specifically this duo had an entire different PR as compared to most students below Hetal Joshi Nagaraj because of their involvement in commercial productions directly from trainings and in-house recital or productions.
- Their in-person practice and rehearsal locations were – Lewisville, Texas and Flower Mound, Texas under Hetal Joshi Nagaraj – exclusively in class as their instructor just as above and below.
- Upon settling in DFW, one of them settled in Irving while the other in outskirts of Flowermound.
- Online classes flawlessly delivered!
0010. Couples Students Success – Multiple Couples at once – Multiple Progressive Workshop Graduate, Private Packages, from no dance to solos & Elite Line. College dance side by side after Audition classes from Ms. Hetal. Elite Line.
These couples pathway are – Jr Digvijay, Patel Sisters, Shreya Shah.
Achievements, honor and pride. Southlake, Las Colinas for College Auditions Classes, Grapevine, Lewisville, Carrollton, Hybrid, Online. Arlington, Lewisville, Hybrid, Online. Grad Year – 2025-2026. Exclusive – Hetal Joshi Nagaraj.
Picture Gallery – As per July 30, 2026.
All the other graduates are also there, but these are in documeted timelines of company because of their outstanding achievements, news in some of the most known newspapers, publications, extra ordinary leadership traits at early age and within the company.
The one-year variation in reported timelines is due to the overlap of academic years and long-term program commitments. Assignments, curriculum, scholar and NJHS activities, seed-stage performances, productions, and other committed engagements often extend across multiple months and may naturally span two calendar years.
Since the U.S. academic year generally runs from August/September through April/May, such overlaps are expected and reflect continuity in training, development, and project completion rather than separate or duplicate activities.
With years of training and relationship build with parents and kids, there is always some activities, projects or certain level of talk within teen and above teams. It becomes inevitable as company engagement, as kids have working brains 🙂 Aunty…and Aunty is right here. Age 4 to Age 20 and beyond.
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Related Posts –
— Do not copy any word, concept or any ideology, verbiage, picture , any clip or dance, or any wordings of Ms Hetal as it is full trademarked, some copyright received and some ip too, by country – 2012-current
Grace And Grooves by Hetal Nagaraj (hetaln.com) 