✦ UNESCO-CID Member · Founder & Artistic Director, RRWD ✦
About Raniya Raanaa
Actress. Dancer. Educator. Social Worker. A life woven in rhythm and rooted in tradition.
Artist Profile
A Life Devoted to Classical Art
With a career spanning two decades of performance, teaching and recognition, Raniya Rana stands as one of the most respected voices in Indian classical dance today.
Speciality
Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam & Kuchipudi
Experience
20+ Years
School
RRWD — 20+ Countries
Location
Kerala, India
Classical Foundation
Bharatanatyam Heritage
Raniya Raanaa began her Bharatanatyam journey at the age of four. At twelve, she entered the prestigious Kerala Kalamandalam — where she completed her High School and Higher Secondary education alongside six years of intensive classical arts training.
She later earned her B.A. in Dance (Bharatanatyam) from Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit, Kalady, and her M.A. in Dance (Bharatanatyam) from St. Teresa's College, Ernakulam — building one of the most rigorous academic and practical foundations in Indian classical dance.
- Trained from age 4 — 20+ years of dedicated practice
- Kerala Kalamandalam — 6 years of intensive classical training
- B.A. in Bharatanatyam — Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit
- M.A. in Bharatanatyam — St. Teresa's College, Ernakulam
Bharatanatyam
The sacred dance of Tamil Nadu
International Performer
USA · Australia · Global Stage Tours
Global Cultural Ambassador
International Performances
As a performing artist, Raniya Raanaa has presented Indian classical dance and full-scale dance productions on international platforms — including performances and dance tours in the United States and other global stages. She continues to share the richness of Indian classical dance with international audiences.
At age 18, she founded Raanaa International School of Indian Classical Dance, Music & Yoga (RRWD) — today a global community connecting students across 20+ countries with the authentic traditions of Indian classical arts.
- International dance tours — United States & beyond
- Dance productions on international platforms
- Founded RRWD at age 18 — now in 20+ countries
- UNESCO-CID Member — International Dance Council, Paris
From Stage to Screen
Cinema & Philanthropy
Beyond the dance stage, Raniya Raanaa is an Indian actress and a committed social worker — making a meaningful difference both on screen and in the community.
Prince and Family — Malayalam Film
Raniya Raanaa made her female-lead debut as Chinju Elsa Rani (Chinju Rani) in the blockbuster Malayalam film Prince and Family — which enjoyed an extended theatrical run of more than 100 days, marking a major milestone in her cinematic career.
Social Work & Philanthropy
From a young age, Raniya has been actively involved in social service and philanthropic initiatives, including supporting cancer patients and families facing serious illnesses, and participating in community-oriented charitable programmes.
Cultural Education & Advocacy
As a cultural educator, Raniya Raanaa has dedicated herself to making authentic Indian classical arts accessible worldwide through RRWD — offering UNESCO-CID certified programmes in Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kuchipudi, Carnatic Music, and Yoga across 20+ countries.
Pedagogy
Teaching Philosophy
Raniya Raanaa's approach blends the rigour of authentic classical tradition with a modern, accessible, and compassionate pedagogy — making Indian classical arts accessible to learners across 20+ countries.
Authentic Classical Tradition
Every student begins with the foundational adavus, mudras, and abhinaya, building a strong classical base before advancing. Raniya's own training at Kerala Kalamandalam and her postgraduate studies ensure every lesson is rooted in authentic tradition.
Individual Attention
Small, limited-size batches ensure every learner receives personal guidance, real-time corrections, and encouragement tailored to their pace. Two experienced teachers guide each class for maximum attention.
UNESCO-CID Certification
Upon completing 150 hours of training, RRWD students receive an International Certification of Dance Studies from the UNESCO International Dance Council (CID), Paris — recognised worldwide.
Global Reach — 20+ Countries
Live online sessions with HD quality and weekend & weekday batches mean students from across the world receive the same standard of classical training. No age limit — Beginner to Advanced levels.
Awards & Certifications
Member — International Dance Council (CID)
UNESCO, Paris · Active
Proud member of the International Dance Council (CID) under UNESCO — the world's largest and most reputed international dance organisation, headquartered in Paris, France.
Women Face of the Year — India
National Recognition · Recipient
Honoured with the prestigious Women Face of the Year award in India, recognising outstanding achievement in the performing arts and cultural education.
Nritya Choodamani Award
Classical Arts Felicitation · Recipient
Awarded the Nritya Choodamani — a distinguished honour recognising mastery and excellence in Indian classical dance performance.
Women’s Pride Award
Community Recognition · Recipient
Recipient of the Women's Pride Award for her inspiring contributions to classical arts, social service, and cultural education for communities worldwide.
Recognition — Indian Cultural Association Victoria (ICAV)
ICAV, Australia · Recipient
Recognised by the Indian Cultural Association Victoria (ICAV), Australia, for her services in promoting Indian classical arts and culture at an international level.
Manorama The Entertainer of the Year — Upcoming Actress
Manorama, Kerala · 2025
Honoured as Manorama The Entertainer of the Year in the Upcoming Actress category (2025) — recognising her breakthrough female-lead debut in the blockbuster Malayalam film Prince and Family.