January 22, 2026 | Bengaluru
From growing up in an SOS Children’s Village to becoming celebrated ambassadors of Indian culture, twin sisters Archana and Chetana’s journey is a moving story of resilience, passion, and purpose.
Now 39, the Bengaluru-based twins are accomplished Bharatanatyam dancers and founders of Nrithyarpanam School of Dance. Their life took a difficult turn at the age of three when they lost their mother. Unable to cope alone, their father sought support from SOS Children’s Villages India, where the sisters found a new home and a nurturing family environment under the care of an SOS Mother.
Recognising their artistic inclination early, SOS Children’s Villages enrolled them in Bharatanatyam classes alongside formal education. With consistent emotional and institutional support, both sisters completed engineering degrees and briefly pursued corporate careers. However, their lifelong connection with dance inspired them to take a bold leap of faith and follow their true calling.
Today, Archana and Chetana are nationally and internationally recognised artistes, Cultural Ambassadors of India, ICCR-empanelled performers, Doordarshan graded artistes, and recipients of several prestigious awards in India and abroad.
“Dance helped us heal and gave our lives direction,” says Archana. Chetana adds that their SOS Mother’s encouragement played a pivotal role in shaping their future.
Their story powerfully reflects how care, opportunity, and belief can transform adversity into achievement.
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