Top image: With participants at Arts for the Aging (Image credit: Kayla Lemen Conklin), March 2025​​

Below are some testimonials from participants, caregivers, and program facilitators about my creative aging sessions: 

Matt Balik, Adult Librarian at 125th Street Library 

• Sloka is such an incredible and thoughtful teacher. She takes the time to craft each lesson to the specific audience. Whether working with lifelong dancers or folks learning about Bharatanatyam for the first time, Sloka gave equal care and attention to all students. Sloka fit right in here at the library!" 

Participants at the YM&YWHA, Nagle Avenue (June 2026), on why they like this dance form

• "Mind and body relaxation takes my mind off things."
• "For the discipline, it provides an (achievable) challenge."
• "It is art that moves. I love how sensitive and delicate and specific the gestures are." 
• "I feel like I am talking to Goddess Earth."

Participants in the Memory Tree program (June 2026) on how they would describe the sessions 

• "People from all different places, interested in different things, we come together in a unique way. It is a special place of friendship. Almost like a secret, because we have never met each other in person.”
• " I love the word games."
• "I love that we learn new things, and I find it relaxing."

Supporter of my work regarding the unique bidirectional teaching and learning that can happen in creative aging sessions (June 2026)

• ​"Oh, great, Sloka. Languages become so easy and informal through gestures and affectionate interaction through just the expression in our eyes. Very nice write-up. It makes relationships so easy and full of warmth." ​
• "I have heard the Plains Indians used to communicate using sign language. I find Plains Indians Sign Language so interesting, and wonder if there are connections between that and what you do."
• "Community is the way to go!!!!!! Such powerful connections and relationships!!!!" 
• "This is beautiful!​" 

Spanish Memory Tree program (June 2026)

• Group facilitator: “They loved it. PLEASE, come back another day.”
• Participant: "regresar" (come back!)

Participants at the YM&YWHA, Nagle Avenue (May 2026) 

• "What you say about looking towards and making eyes expansive helps me in life outside dance as well."
• "In this dance, we show everyday things like emotions, plants, leaves, sun, but somehow these are elevated to something specific, delicate, exquisite, and divine."
• "This is all so wonderful, so beautiful! Thanks for opening a door to this amazing world. I started reading the Abhinaya Darpana, and just this tiny bit of reading the first few pages has clarified for me a lot about the art and how all that beauty is achieved. "The amateur does not exist in Oriental art" -- one of the lines that took my breath away. It explains so much about why, without even understanding a word of the language, this art gets to one's soul and heart. All the devotion, the hard work, the depth of feeling, maybe it's a transcendental language that humans can understand beyond words. It's really profound. And the poem ("Yatho hasta") is gorgeous. If you don't mind, I will use it when I teach the lesson this weekend in our training... I suspect people will enjoy it. Wow, thanks so much again!!!!"
• "I can see how small things like lifting my elbows (in Anjali hasta) make a big difference. My shoulders are wide and relaxed, and my eyes are focused, all due to one small change." 
• "Any thought of you, any word of you, is always a darshan to me."
• Thank you. This dance is really heaven on Earth. Jagat Mangalam. 🙏🌹"

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A supporter of my work, and specifically, using Indian folk dance for creative aging (May 2026) 

• "I love this. You have such great energy."
• "So much fun!"
• "Nice simple exercise!" 
• For being in my life, thank you! Enjoy watching you dance! Amazing!"

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Participant of a workshop at the 125th Street NYPL branch (May 2026) 

• "I could imagine the temple, field, and water as you were showing us.”

A friend and supporter of translating Bharatanatyam pieces for Spanish-speaking audiences (May 2026)

• "Thank you for having an expansive vision for Bharatanatyam and making it accessible to ALL! You are aaah-MAY-zing!!!!!!"

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Participants in the Memory Tree program (May 2026) after a session about Chef Lena Richard

• "Thanks so much. I think I will buy one and try my library, as well.  You are an invaluable resource and a compassionate, patient, cheerful, brilliant group leader! (Did I say too much???)" 
• "I understand what this group is about, and I can see how it may be beneficial for me."

Friend and supporter of my work (May 2026)

• "You make the audience know you are performing for them." 

Participant of a workshop at the Jerome Park NYPL branch (April 2026)

• "I think in order to learn this dance, you have to love art." 

Reader of the social media post on Bharatanatyam at various NYPL locations (April 2026)

• "You are an amazing speaker/orator/storyteller too!!!!! - Thank you for inviting me - I learn so much from you!"

Participant in the Memory Tree program (April 2026) after a session on the artist Elizabeth Catlett

• "It is so nice to be introduced to new artists. I love your choice of topics - it is clear you spend time on them."

"Science is Artful: the Dancing Brain" at Epiphany Branch of the NYPL (April 2026)

• "Your peacemaking energy is amazing!"
• "The neuroscience of moving from stress to creativity. That sensational Sloka has been a goal since 2013! I took a 9-month program to be a sound and music practitioner, and  ​by chance, I happened to take a tabla workshop. His rhythm was totally impeccable in sync and I was as always too much in head!
• "I just got home, and I can’t stop admiring your interests and dedication. It’s amazing - I am in awe. I will practice the sollakuttu and the "chapu" rhythm with hands and feet."
• From the adult librarian: "Both the patrons and I really enjoyed your presentation and performance. You have incredible charisma AND stamina. Looking forward to the potential to work together in the future, and I will let colleagues know they need to have you at their branches!" 

The Living Library at the New York Public Library (April 2026) Video link here

• "I have seen so many shows over the years, but this is the first time someone has taken the time to explain to us what the gestures mean. All this time, I was admiring them because they are beautiful, but I now know they have meaning. All dancers should do this before they perform."
• I stayed with the entire program, everyone was great, even though they followed their toughest act, yes?
• "Thank you for the performance. I was so absorbed I forgot to take photographs. We both think you made a gracious and agile recovery when the music got messed up. Brava!" 
• ​"You were no less than aaah-maizing!!!! Especially during the technical difficulties😄- I'm bummed b/c the sound went out for Internet land during your pivot when you were talking about the different hastas, etc. Thank you so much - you are a consummate professional - you were so calm, cool, and collected during technical difficulties (plural😀). Dance on!!!"
• "You are Sloka, you have the sound engraved in your  DNA 🙏" 
• "Also, your initial explanation was wonderful. By the way, you even mentioned Vasistha. My friend and I were just reading some of his writings this week." 
•  "The more you dance, the more beautiful you become."
• "I could see the change in your face as the music began, and it was clear that your gurus and their gurus had done the same before you. That this is a form that is in you." 
• "Definitely to watch you, Sloka, was exquisitely thrilling! Grateful for what you share! Beautifully orchestrated, wonderful world with your kind, beautiful mind, magical movement, and I loved how music flows out of you!"
• "Thank you for being a part of the event, Sloka. Your talent and dedication to the art is so humbling to witness. It was a fabulous performance, despite our technical difficulties. What a privilege it is to have you as a partner in our work!"
• "Yes, it was a good show. Always nice to see a good Bharatanatyam performance. There were those technical difficulties, but that gave you the chance to teach a few things (a few mudras, etc.) while waiting for the sound to go back on (actually making the event even better!).
• "Thank you for sharing your expertise and talent, Sloka!! What a pleasure! Hoping to see it in person soon 🌟"
• ​"Lovely to see you as well! Such a joy to see your beloved dancing in person. So wonderful!"
• "Full of music and movement, you are a treasure and an inspiration. We were all in awe of your ability to share - I definitely want to squat more after your poised performances."
• "Thanks, Sloka. You were wonderful!! No need for music. You are the SONG!"
• "You were awesome. I loved how you went into professor mode after the second time the music failed. You kept your cool and gave the audience a masterclass on dance. Then you danced a truly beautiful and physical piece with such grace. You really shone!"
• "The video was worth quite something. The first nine minutes gave the event actually its justification. Of course, then it became frustrating. I would have loved to hear the rest of your explanations. They were so lucky to have you."

Participants, Kips Bay NYPL (April 2026) Moving Poetry sessions

• "I wanted to try something new and different, and my soul came alive. There are not many places in the city where you can talk abt the clouds and what they’re saying."
• "A most enjoyable and sublime afternoon, thanks!" 
• "Thank you for the amazing class. I'm looking forward to the next session!"
• "If this were at my library branch, there would be a waiting line, and people would be waiting outside the door.”
• "I don’t know if it’s a result of these sessions, but I feel more aware of my surroundings. I have started noticing the clouds out of my window.”
• "You create such a welcoming atmosphere, and I loved learning the basics of Bharatanatyam gestures as a first-time beginner!"  
• In a survey administered mid-way, participants mentioned the following as "memorable moments": 
  • Enacting poems through dance. 
  • "I feel more connected to the community, and I learn about another culture."
  • "I like learning about Indian poets, poems, dance, movement, and expressions."
  • "I find myself more aware of my surroundings ever since I started these sessions." 
• "Any other place where I talk about things, they will send me to a psychiatric ward. This was like a dream, a miracle. To have this in my neighborhood.” (We were discussing the poem "For Longing" by John O'Donahue. 
• “I am learning so many new things.”
• “If I look at them, they are just words on a page. But when we discuss them and the questions you ask, they become philosophical.”
• "I now know you need a teacher or guide to learn this dance."
• ​“Let us know if other things are going on in the city so that we can build on what we already learned.”
• “I’m sorry you had a small class, but I’m glad I got an intimate time. It’s like the Rockettes coming to the public library, and you get to see them up close.” 
• “Thank you so much. I enjoyed your classes thoroughly. Wishing you all the best.”
• In a survey administered at the end of the six sessions, participants mentioned the following as "memorable moments": 
  • "​Bringing beauty to life."
  • "Interpretation of poems."
  • "Enjoyed the dance, movement, and poems."
  • "The poetry depth and meaning - beautiful!"

 A reader of my paper on how Bharatanatyam can be used to ease social isolation and loneliness 

• "There were many parallels to what I have seen in our SilverStrides walking groups. Particularly, the theme of connecting to others, nature, and current events, and more experienced students guiding new students. Earlier today, I noticed one of our regular walkers explaining the route to a new walker. I also really appreciated your discussion about how having a deep impact on one person is as important as a superficial impact on a larger group." 

A supporter in advance of Arts for the Aging Open House 

• "Better than reading old Hazrat Inayat Khan books about how dance is important for our physical, mental, and spiritual wellness, is going to a Sloka Iyengar event and learning how to actually do it. I know Dr. Iyengar personally and can attest that Dr. Iyengar is the real deal, and it's such a rare opportunity to learn from someone who is both a gifted neuroscientist and a master of an ancient tradition of expression and instruction through dance. Check it out!"

Participants of the Arts for the Aging Open House 

• Thank you so much, Sloka, for such an engaging and enriching session!
• "How marvelous you are, and it was so beautiful, and my hands felt tight too, but I loved it!" 
• "The specificity of the gestures helps with my arthritis pain." 
• I loved learning the bird gesture - 🙏 Sloka, your hands are exquisite."
• "I enjoyed joining in on the dance and learning the different gestures.  You did a really wonderful job of making the session interactive and stimulating.  And you inspired me to engage in more science outreach with older adult communities."
• (From the CEO): "What a wonderful open house last week! It was such a meaningful, engaging, and educational way to connect with our donors, just as I’d hoped. You covered all the important things in a warm way: what your art is about, why the work matters, and a gentle invitation to donate. Thank you so much for your artistry, skills, and care." 

Participants in the The Memory Tree program (March 2026) as part of the Innovation grant from the I'm Still Here Foundation 

• "I found this peaceful and unifying". 
• "I was not feeling well before the session, but now I am." 
• "I enjoyed how the emotions and mind and body came together." 
• "I liked the hand gestures - they were fine, specific, and magical." 
  "I want to learn to dance like you."
• "It is so nice to have this group."
• "I want to learn more about the culture and history of India."
• "I liked learning about the different dances, art, learning about India, and seeing how art was incorporated. I would like to take a book and learn about different kinds of dances and costumes." 
• "I want to know how they (people in India) came to this place so that the grace and beauty can be on display.”   

Participant, Arts for the Aging (March 2026)

• "Somehow, this was relaxing and energizing at the same time."
• "Thank you for getting me out of my body."
• "Thank you for being a healing conduit.”

A reader of my work on Bharatanatyam in creative aging (March 2026)

• "It's wonderful you are making Bharatnatyam accessible to seniors."

A reader of the blogpost "Highlighting the universal nature of Bharatanatyam" (March 2026)

• "I love how this approach makes learning Bharatanatyam feel more personal and engaging."

Participants at the YM&YWHA, Nagle Avenue (March 2026) (these participants are lifelong meditators) 

• "Just to clarify how dance could be like meditation: The idea of the Vishnu gesture as the whole universe is incomplete without participating in that completeness, but the dance gesture possessing that meaning CAN thus participate and fulfill that completeness. So people meditate because they intuit that opportunity exists to be their complete self. Dancing doesn’t always complete the meaning, but it could. Similarly, the discipline of meditation combines the completeness intent because that is what it means. W. B. Yeats’ famous poem, Among School Children concluding line has a similar intent ‘How can we know the dancer from the dance?”

A participant in the The Memory Tree program (March 2026) as part of the Innovation grant from I'm Still Here Foundation 

• "I found this very meditative and reflective. I will spend some time thinking on this." (I shared the song "Hum ko man ki shakti dena" on the theme of courage and bravery. ​

Participant ("Adaptive Dance for Creative Aging" talk), The Creative Center 2026 Training Institute for Arts in Health and Creative Aging (March 2026)

• "Such an engaging presentation!" 
• "I love the focus on gaze, facial expression, and gesture, and how intricate each movement is, but also adaptable to contemporary context and stories."
• "I love the rhythms done through hands and feet and then having participants listen in the world for different rhythms."

Participant (Gentle Movement Break, The Creative Center 2026 Training Institute for Arts in Health and Creative Aging (March 2026)

• "Thank you for the lovely stretches and story!"

​Sarah House, Program Director, Arts for the Aging (December 2025)

• "Sloka, I’m so grateful for the energy and creativity you brought this year. Exploring a new hybrid collaboration was a challenge, but even with the technical bumps, you helped turn it into a positive learning experience for all of us. I love how you always bring fresh perspectives to the equity meetings and creative jams, you help us see things in new ways. Connecting with you at the NOAH conference was a highlight for me. Hearing how passionately you advocate for equitable artist representation was inspiring and affirmed why your voice matters so much in this work. I deeply value the creativity, curiosity, and joy you bring into every space. Your presence elevates our work and strengthens our community. Thank you for continuing to lead with vision and heart."

Participants of a talk I gave as part of Silver Talkies, India (February 2026) 

• "People! What an AMAZING session by Shloka Iyengar. Those of you who couldn’t make it for this session, you really missed an EXCELLENT & BRILLIANT session! Thanks Nidhi for organizing this session. Thanks Margie for so efficiently anchoring the session. And a BIG SHOUTOUT to Shloka Iyengar. 👌👌👌👌👏👏👏👏🙏🙏🫶🏽🫶🏽 I am in some other world right now!"
• "Loved it! Superb!"
• "I know! I want a repeat, I want a repeat… 😁
• "Wonderful session,Loved it." 
• "Wonderful session Shloka..very inspiring" 
• "Superb session with Sloka. I am sure all who attended would love a follow up session." 
• "Wonderful lesson!"
• Beautiful, brilliant!"
• "Super, excellent!"
• "I wish someone would do this here (in India)."
• "Very inspiring session."
• "Looking forward to the next beautiful, enjoyable, inspiring session by Shloka Iyengar soon."

Viewers on social media of the dance piece at Dances for a Variable Population session in Queensbridge (February 2026) 

• "You’re moving different populations through your art and it’s wonderful! I’m moved too!:) Best wishes Sloka!"
• "So good to hear your voice (and laugh) - and your inclusion of the littlest member!" 
• "Many blessings!"
• "Absolutely awesome performance!"
• "Totally awesome!"
• "I love this 🩷!"
• "Absolutely amazing!"
• "Awesome Sloka! Loved this. You are inspirational. God bless you!" 
• "This was a song which put my children to sleep when they were small ! Love this! Best wishes Sloka for your efforts! We used to like and sing this song नन्ही कलि सोने चली…… Thanks for the memory that resurfaced 🩷 🩷"! 
• "This is such a soothing interpretation!​"
• "Bringing joys, community through beautiful meaningful movement and song!"
• "So relaxing to watch. 💛✨️ (Until the baby screams 😅"
• Dances for a Variable Population (DVP) posted this on their social media about my event and mentioned"
  • Last month DVP’s Guest Artist Masterclass Series brought Bharatanatyam to Queensbridge Riis — led by Dr. Sloka Iyengar, neuroscientist and master dancer. Hand gestures, rhythm, storytelling — every movement adaptable to any ability. Thank you Dr. Sloka Iyengar, Queensbridge Riis Senior Center, and Council Member @cmjuliewon for making this possible in District 26. This is what dance for every body looks like."

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  Participant at the YM&YWHA, Nagle Avenue (February 2026) 

• "I just love this class!" 

Participant at Saint Luke Institute talk titled "Movement, Culture, and Healthy Aging" (February 2026) 

• "It was fabulous! You're such a beautiful dancer. And the presentation made me reflect on how I'd like to ground my clinical practice. Love the integration of art and science! 🩷 Also it was so cool that you got people to dance! 🩷" 
• "This is so incredible. Bharatanaytam should be part of every single older adult center!"

Assistant at the Dances for a Variable Population session in Queensbridge (February 2026) 

• "You were wonderful with the ladies. I really appreciated how you took your time and yes, amazing does describe what you do.
  Thank you for treating our seniors with so much love and care. Much success to you!"

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Participant at the YM&YWHA, Nagle Avenue (January 2026) 
(This learner travels 2 hours each way to come to class). 

• "I get a darshan (an auspicious sight) every time I am in your class."

Caregiver of an individual I work with at The Memory Tree  (January 2026)

• "Thank you very much for welcoming, educating and entertaining us. Thursday afternoon will not be the same. Hopefully, we will be able to attend once again in the future. In any event, take good care and continue the wonderful job you are doing."

Participants at the YM&YWHA, Nagle Avenue (January 2026) 

• "The hour flew by somehow!"​
• "I can feel the Vedas when I come to your sessions."

Participants at the YM&YWHA, Nagle Avenue (January 2026) on Kylie Madhav's session on Tamil 

• "We both enjoyed the talk. She (Kylie) is very forthcoming and informative. Invite her again!!!"
• "🐾Thanks I Do Really Enjoy different cultures.people,  places and amazing the many YEARS..  TIME   Are Strong Faith THANKS ❤️" 
• What a wonderful class!. Thank-you so much, Sloka and Kylie.🌹" 
• "Thank you for a lovely afternoon and an enlightening talk on Indian classical culture and existing political importance of Tamil."
• "It was fascinating!" 
• "This was a love class, a scholarly expose on the extremely significant and important language of Tamil by Kylie and Sloka showed us a poem with graceful hand gestures, an elegant and enchanting afternoon."

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  Friend and supporter of my creative aging efforts (December 2025) 

• "You're a blessing to me 🙏💕"

Supporter of my creative aging efforts (December 2025) 

• "I know this is a very simplistic way of explaining it, but when we talk about aging, people usually list a lot of things that can help with keeping your brain active. Exercise is among those, art, being bilingual, socializing, you know the usual list. This (Bharatanatyam) is like this art form combines all of those. The story telling part, the intricate movements etc. would be so useful."

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Supporter, "Shabd: Exploring Words and Bharatanatyam" at Morris Park New York Public Library (December 2025) 

• "When I think of your work - I see the intersection of science and art that meandering with care and compassion into the beauty, story-telling, quietude of life and knowledge. Thank you for being my mentor and cousin."

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Caregiver of an individual I work with at The Memory Tree  (December 2025)

• "This is the only group he likes. Thank you."

Participant at the YM&YWHA, Nagle Avenue (December 2025) 
(This learner travels 2 hours each way to come to class). ​

• "Your dance makes me a happier person. 🙏🌹"
• It gives me comfort that , even if I cannot dance it, You are doing  it ! —for yourself— Which is also for  me, for all of us, When it comes to unity of consciousness. Oneness."

Program coordinator (Series funded by I'm Still Here)

• "I hope you realize how wonderful the program was for this group. They were all very involved and connected to you, and responded so well to your dance program. You should feel very proud. Thank you for bringing such joy to our program."

Participant, "Shabd: Exploring Words and Bharatanatyam" at Morris Park New York Public Library (December 2025) 

• "I thank you very much for the classes at NYPL . They were wonderful and you made them a delight. I’m glad to have met you too. Poetry was part of my happy childhood memories. They were kind of forgotten and are now coming back. I hope to see you again in future classes at NYPL Morris Park. 

Participant, "Shabd: Exploring Words and Bharatanatyam" at Morris Park New York Public Library (November 2025) 

• "I wanted to share that I have genuinely enjoyed the class. While I was never a fan of poetry before, the visual poetry and the way you conduct the sessions have completely changed my mind. I could do this indefinitely." 

Participant, Arts for the Aging (November 2025)

• "I feel energized and pain-free after the movement workshop. I felt tired and had pain before. But then, I came to your program and you helped me feel energized."

Participants, "Shabd: Exploring Words and Bharatanatyam" at Morris Park New York Public Library (November 2025) 

• One participant on the poem by William Wordsworth ("I wandered lonely as a cloud") said: "One of my favorite poems! We were taught it in school and at that time, I barely understood it. When I came to America 40 years ago and saw my first daffodils during my first spring here, this is the first thing that came to my mind- and I think of it every year when I spot my first daffodils every spring. Thank you for sharing on this grey and rainy day :)"
• On the sessions in general, "I believe that we are where we are meant to be. You talk about the interconnected of life and I believe in that. I think every life has worth and should be celebrated. I like that we bring that out in our poems and movement.”
• "This program is so informative, innovative and downright enjoyable! Sloka is an incredible, creative teacher!"

Participants at the YM&YWHA, Nagle Avenue (November 2025) on Kamini Dandapani's session on Indian music and dance

• "I had a wonderful time, and thank you for letting me know about it." 
• "Hi Sloka!  Great class with Kamini!  It was a good learning experience!😊  Thanks for the performance honoring my request (of you dancing to Kamini's music)! 😊 It’s very nice and we should do more of them in future! 😊" 
• From Kamini: "Thank you for the wonderful opportunity to share my love for Carnatic music today. I had such a blast. What a great community you have built up - it was truly heartwarming to see."
• "Thank you for the special opportunity you created for us. I loved it, and I loved that you demonstrated. I am always mesmerized by the rhythms that you can do with your body. I see it in the point of view of healing. I enjoyed my friend to attend, and she enjoyed the lecture as well. I felt a bit nostalgic about the ragas - I must learn more."
• "I really enjoyed Kamini's presentation and appreciate her depth and knowledge of Indian classical music and history, as well as your insights into the connection of music and Bharatanatyam. Thanks, Sloka!"
• "I love you. My heart sings when you dance."
• From a regular student: "Thank you for inviting Kamini, and for making this available for us." 
• "Thank- you, dear Sloka.  It was lovely to be with you again and to receive such an excellent introduction to South Indian music."

Participant at Morningside Retirement and Health Services (MRHS) as part of the Innovation grant from I'm Still Here Foundation (November 2025) 
"The work you do knocks at the doors of participants' memories. This, we will take with us even after the session is over. We will sing the lullaby and it will evoke pleasant memories when we are home. You are giving them the gift for rejuvenating moments of life. This is the power of sweetness and precious memories. You do such a great job connecting to everyone’s culture (this remark was to the lullabies and how there are lullabies in all cultures). 

Participant, "Shabd: Exploring Words and Bharatanatyam" at Morris Park New York Public Library (November 2025) 
"I really am enjoying the class! ____________
           ^^  ^^  ^^
(3 bats 🦇 for Halloween, if I recall what you showed us ...)"

Participant at the YM&YWHA, Nagle Avenue (October 2025) 
(This learner travels 2 hours each way to come to class). 

• "I continue to contemplate the storytelling from this dance and the healing which comes from it."

Several supporters on the Innovation grant from I'm Still Here Foundation (October 2025) to work with those that have early/mild dementia

• "Love seeing and hearing about how you are engaging those most disenfranchised in communities with Bhatayanatyam and showing how this art form invigorates and generates pathways of expression, movement, and renewal.You inspire me to moe end cousin. You are relentless and the world is a better place because of it!'
• "So excited to see the joy of dance bringing joy to the care and life of those living with serious illness."
• "Sounds wonderful Sloka, it's so good to see you apply your talent and empathy in so many ways! So proud of you!!" 

​​Audience member testimonials Īkṣaṇa ("Caregiving") at Aaron Davis Hall on Sept 27, 2025

• (To the Bourree Anglaise piece): "On Sunday morning, I woke up with the moment you were walking Jess in my head. That just said it all and was funny as well." 
• (To the Sarabande piece): "It was as if Bach had written it for you, truly translational." 
• "The programs were amazing - exquisite, delightful, surprising, inspiring, and moving. I hope that you and Kylie will be able to present them again throughout the city.🙏❤️🕉️ 

Participant at the YM&YWHA, Nagle Avenue (September 2025) 
(This learner travels 2 hours each way to come to class). 

• "I feel grateful that you exist. Also, I thank your parents and ancestors to have brought you into this world in which you share your beautiful gifts."

​​Audience member testimonials Īkṣaṇa ("Caregiving") at Aaron Davis Hall on Sept 27, 2025

• "Sloka! Oh, it was so beautiful!  Amazing!  We enjoyed it so much!!  You were super and felt so proud of you!  Thank you so much for being in my life! 😀 ❤️ ❤️ ❤️"
• We enjoyed throughly Sloka! You are a fine artist 👌🌹" 
• "The show was very nice  and very engaging.  The added components (of flute and narration) really worked well. Thank you and congratulations." 
• "Omg! It was amazing! We loved it!"
• "The 3 of you worked well. I love the flute and your narrator did a good job."
• To flutist Zara Lawler: "BRAVO!!!! I enjoyed the show  immensely. Wow, every part of the dancer's body is so expressive! The narrator has a beautiful, melodious speaking voice! And your music is heavenly!! You continue to push yourself to learn to do more and more with your flute playing. Masterful!! Thank you for inviting me to an enchanting performance."
• "It was a joy and inspiration to savor your exquisite dancing and creative programming."

Participant at the YM&YWHA, Nagle Avenue (September 2025) 
(This learner travels 2 hours each way to come to class). 
"Thank you, Dearest Teacher. I love the class. You elevate me, us. As my husband would say, "you out-did yourself". I am enjoying learning with you." 

​​Audience members at  Īkṣaṇa ("Caregiving") at Buuni Coffee on Sept 19, 2025

• (On a piece that showed the relationship between the rising sun and the sea), "I could read it, write it, but seeing you dance, I will never forget, and I will tell everyone that the sun is inside me." 
• (On a piece that described the Narmada river), "I feel that as long as I live, there is a place for me, for us by the river."
• "Watching you, I felt like I was dancing."
• "What a beautiful performance. I am always awestruck at your talent ! It's not just the dance, but the way you weave in the background,  facts,  mythology etc is simply amazing!" 
• Your performance was so expressive! Thank you ! ❤️"

Participant at the YM&YWHA, Nagle Avenue (September 2025) 
(This learner travels 2 hours each way to come to class). 
"You are worth it!  Your class was surreal As love and cosmic things always are👏👏👏👏
You  gave us practical rhythms, which I needed to learn exactly. And of course the songs permeated everything we did." 

​​Audience members at  Īkṣaṇa ("Caregiving") at the YM & YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood on Sept 7, 2025

• "I felt all the emotions." 
• "I was singing along (to the Tridevi stuti). I lived in Calcutta for 8 years, so the songs brought back my memories."
• "Thank YOU!! The performance was just fantastic, one of your best! Everybody thought so."
• "What a wonderful performance,  Sloka, you outdid yourself if that's even possible! Satish LOVED it! Sheila did too but I was astounded he came!!"
• "Your performance was exquisite, moving, and inspiring, Sloka. From the very first note of music I could feel a sense of the sacred, transmitted over the years . I hope to attend both of your upcoming performances, at Buuni and Aaron Davis Hall. Thanks & blessings!"
• "I found the English and Spanish translations very clear and helpful."
• "Amazing. You are so talented. God has blessed you,👣🐾​"

Victoria Neznansky, Chief Development and Social Services Officer, YM & YWHA and as an audience member at  Īkṣaṇa ("Caregiving") 
"Through your teaching, you bring the joy of dance to our community, offering not only movement and wellness, but also a connection to culture, spirit, and beauty. As a performer, you shared your soul, traditions, and the grace of Indian dance with such artistry and warmth. Your performance left a lasting impression on everyone present, inspiring, and uplifting both participants and staff. Older adults are truly fortunate to learn from you, to be moved by your generosity, and to experience the healing power of dance under your guidance. Thank you for your support, your time, and the light your bring into our community."

​​An audience member at  Īkṣaṇa ("Caregiving") at the YM & YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood on Aug 20, 2025
"Namaste, Dear Miss Sloka. What a pleasure seeing your sacred dancing. Seeing you inspired me to consider a change and move to learn (the veena)." 

A supporter on providing narration for Bharatanatyam recitals in Spanish 
"That's phenomenal!!! You are such an inspiration and light!!!!!! Thank you for your relentless spirit, insight, creativity, innovation, knowledge, and wisdom! You are a force!"

Participant: Dr. Chigurupati S Rani (Assistant Professor, Computer Information Systems at BMCC) on the session on sculpture and Bharatanatyam
"It was a very interesting special session, Sloka!  Beautiful vigrahas! Aravind gave a very nice introduction to the temples and the temple carvings!  Everyone enjoyed the lecture and of course, your dance performance!! 😊 💕 "

Director, Joe Mayock Older Adult Center at Independence Plaza (May 2025) 
​"That was the best lecture we've ever had (video above)." ​

Participant, Older Adult Center at Independence Plaza (May 2025)

• ​"I had a wonderful time seeing you dance. I think you noticed that I was smiling all the time. Thank you for making our afternoon happy. You are great. I was smiling because I was enjoying your dancing so much. I loved every movement. Thank you again. I am lucky to have met you. I could use some of those wonderful movement to help my body move better. I am 86 years old! Thank you again."

Participants, Kips Bay NYPL (April 2025) Moving Poetry sessions

• "I really enjoyed the class today. It was quite enlightening and Sloka. You are a delight.”
• “Thank you for your poem gatherings a series where reading/writing in a group/listening to music and movements we replicate watching your lovely dancing poetically with hands - an all around tri-language series. I wish Sloka I could speak in another language, and your name is poetically more than a verse - you hold the Universe of poetry in your being!"
• "I am in awe of your ease". 
• "I found this program very engaging.  I made so many connections."
• "Words were being expressed through body language.  It gave me relaxation and exercise."
• The facilitator Sloka Iyengar was fabulous!  Plus I enjoyed the music and the poetry and the dance and the movement."
• "I loved this so much!"
• "This inspires me to continue on the path of moving, poetry, song and dance."
• I think your joy, your dancing, your intelligence and creativity in collaborating is what is the best plan to thrive in these times."

Participant at the YM&YWHA, Nagle Avenue, Michael Setter (February 2025)
" Thank you for a job well done. Your patience and dedication are incredible. It’s so difficult and so different from what I knew and still I feel I’m making progress. Keep up the great work." 

Caregiver of an individual I work with at The Memory Tree  (January 2025)
"I watched my mother interact with others. which I haven’t seen in a while."

Sarah House, Program Director, Arts for the Aging (December 2024)
"I’m so glad we got to meet and connect in person at the NOAH conference! I learn something new every time we talk and I value the perspective and experience you bring to our faculty. Your melding of the scientific and artistic is at the heart of our mission and rooted in the founding from the first workshops with the National Institutes of Health. Your approach of introducing the cultural context and storytelling
of Bharatanatyam creates a welcoming space for participants to learn something new, create together, and inspires a sense of accomplishment. I’m looking forward to find ways to engage you in upcoming projects either virtually or in-person."

Participant Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library (November 2024)
"They are all of love and beauty and part of the cosmos. I have so enjoyed the universal connection that I have experienced in your  teaching. It transcends and combines all (positive) thoughts and beliefs. Producing relaxation and encouragement. The class is ending, but the relationship with what you introduced hasn’t."

Aravind Mallipudi, Hrudayam Art Gallery; Participant Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library (November 2024)
"I feel more alive and reconnected to my roots with every ritual and expression of our culture. So Thank You for your class and allowing me to share my own passion and knowledge with our participants."

Logan Hughes; Adult librarian, Baychester NYPL (April 2024)
"I had the privilege to work with Sloka over a two month span. During that time she taught a class of somewhere between 8-12 people the basics of Indian dance, as well as the meaning behind certain symbols and movements. During this time Sloka was an absolute delight to work with. Her students lined up enthusiastically each week for their class and left smiling. Sloka's passion was obvious in both the classroom and in casual conversation. When given the chance to perform, not only her passion, but also her love for and dedication to, Indian dance was demonstrated. This enchanted the audience who applauded her performance and were delighted to have witnessed something they had never seen before. I cannot recommend Sloka enough to anyone lucky enough to have the chance to work with her."

Participants, Baychester NYPL (April 2024)

• "Quite engaging, instrumental to my wellbeing."
• I enjoyed learning the "meaning to the movements of Indian Dance."
• "My most memorable moments were the steps and the meaning of the language".
• "I loved the hand mudras with their accompanying meanings". 
• I love the "mind body connection". 
• "I felt connected and peaceful". 
• "It made me realize that I can make achievements for my benefit when having patient, encouraging people assisting me". 

Participants, India Home (April 2024)

• "Thank you for your patience and generosity."
• "Thank you, Sloka-ji. We are well-trained by now that I think we can perform this piece on stage. You are indeed a very good guru to all of us. Shri guruve namah."
• "Dear Sloka-ji, we appreciate your analytical dance steps and your love of dancing talent and teaching us, which makes for a happy hour. We wish you good luck and hope we may demonstrate some time."
• "Sloka-ji, you are a great teacher and the thought of ending this is saddening." 

Participants, The Creative Center, "Rasas in the Now" (November 2023)

• Asked about the instructor's strengths and weaknesses: "Her genuine passion, care and empathetic listening created a safe an open space to share" and "In any order: Warmth, intelligence, encouragement, openness, personality, intellectual curiosity, talent."
• Asked about "Has the creative process and/or the art form you explored in this workshop bettered your life? If so, * how?": "Absolutely. Made me think deeper about specific feelings and expressing them thru art felt very healing." and "New ways of looking at things. Relating to areas of life that I may not have considered before."

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Participants, Arts for the Aging

• "This program is interesting and fun! The facilitators do a good job of eliciting comments from all participants, and surprisingly, make nice poetry out of those responses." 
  • A participant in the The Body Poetic series. 
• “It’s so nice to be welcomed. You’re keeping me alive with these programs.”
  • - Elizabeth, a participant with Northern Virginia Virtual Center for Active Adults after a Moving Stories workshop. 

Participant at the YM&YWHA, Nagle Avenue, Deanna vonSecondorf (October 2023)

• "At the start of the Indian dance class with Sloka, we learn deep breathing to use our body, mind, and soul to embrace creation and to become one with the universe. We de-stress ourselves. It is an atmosphere of sharing. We laugh and hold each other up with praises. I am 85 years old slow to learn and awkward in my movements. Oops! My balance. I am clumsy, but I do persevere over and over again. In due time with small steps, I do improve. There is more to this dance class than learning steps. I am transported into a magical world of sparkling stars, a forever-changing world. There is a sense of serenity and magical beauty that comes through hand movements. As we move in unison, we become graceful bodies in motion. It is a journey of wonder! It is an awesome and spiritual experience. I also feel a heightened awareness and sensitivity of my surroundings through the dance. At the end of each class, we humble ourselves to pay homage and give respect to our ancestors, teachers, and contemporaries. We say "Namaste". We bow to a greater being. Truly a thrilling experience! In conclusion, this dance class has transformed over my life in body (balance agility), mind (learning something new, increased focus), spirit (feelings of wellbeing, peace, and joy). I am thankful for Sloka as a teacher. Her experience and knowledge of Classical Indian dancing is immeasurable. I also appreciate her steadfast patience." 

Caregiver, Padma Narayanaswamy (June 2023)

• "Talent, Grace, Empathy - these are a few words that come to mind when I think of Sloka.  I met Sloka a year ago performing at the RING garden. While I was surprised to find someone performing Bharatanatyam in a park in NYC, I was planning to just watch a few minutes and head back to my chores, however I found myself riveted to her performance. To say she is talented is a huge understatement!  As we got to know each other and she started teaching seniors at the Y in Inwood, I am so impressed by who she is and what she does.  Her classes at the Y for seniors are amazing and a lot of fun. Bharatanatyam , a very intense art form is broken down by her into simple mudras (hand gestures), foot and hand movements that are easy for anyone to follow and she has a talent in bringing out creativity in everyone!  She is very attuned to the needs of her students who are senior citizens with varying physical capabilities and adapts her teaching to each one's needs in the same class,  so everyone feels comfortable and learns at their pace. She is an inspiration to all, with her  empathy, commitment to her work and sense of humor, and I am privileged to know her!"

Participant, Pauline Roony Yeargan (May 2023)

• "Thank you for the video of your performance of the Ashai Mukham. I enjoyed watching your expressive dancing as well as listening to the voice of the singer and reading the written words which tell the story. Your movements have helped me to better understand the relationship between the Dancer and a Deity as well as the relationship between the Dancer and the Poet. Also the experience of actually performing Classical Indian Dance in your class helps me to better understand my own training in movement in the USA, and the new direction that I am pursuing in my own dancing. I love improvisation between dancers, non dancers, and musicians.  For me Dance is always an unplanned conversation similar to people meeting outdoors and expressing  ideas spontaneously.  

Jordan Reif, Program Manager, Program Manager for the Humanistic Medicine Program in the Office of Student Affairs  (March 2023)

• "Sloka facilitated a 90-minute workshop focusing on Bharatanatyam and rasas for medical students, staff, and faculty. She was extremely welcoming and engaged both people with and without previous experience with Bharatanatyam. Sloka encouraged people to think about the specific intersection between neuroscience and dance, as well as facilitating larger conversations about history, gender, and emotion. Everyone left the space inspired and excited to learn more." 

Jeff Nesler, Director; Coming of Age program at PSS 

• "Please accept my sincere appreciation on behalf of Coming of Age and the PSS staff and Board for yesterday evening’s outstanding presentation and Q&A on Brain Plasticity as We Age. It was exciting to hear the enthusiasm you and the audience shared about neuroplasticity. It seemed practically every possible angle of discussion about the subject arose, and the hour flew by. Thank you so much for sharing your time with us. This was a truly riveting experience." 

Ann Burgunder: Program Director; Alzheimer’s Disease & Related Dementias Family Support Program at NYU

• "Huge thanks for a wonderful program. I began the program doing the movement with you, but then I turned to watching everyone. The whole group was so engaged in the movement and the music and your singing.  It was lovely to feel the calmness that you brought to each person.  You opened up imaginations and memories." 

Participant: Dr. Chigurupati S Rani (Assistant Professor, Computer Information Systems at BMCC)

• "Great fun & joy for all ages! All my life I have been only watching and enjoying the Bharatanatyam dances but never really learned to dance.  I am very happy to say that we, the seniors now have the opportunity to learn the Indian classical dance at the YM&YWHA, Nagle Avenue!  Thanks to Dr. Sloka Iyengar, our dance instructor!  Amazing!  I joined the class in September 2022.  After a little over two months, I feel very comfortable with the steps (mudras)! In the beginning I thought it’s going to be hard because Bharatanatyam is not easy to learn.  But, after two months I feel very comfortable.  I can say I learned a lot of ‘Mudras’ (hand gestures, rhythm with feet, and eye movements) in such a short time!  This is only possible in such a short time because of the wonderful teacher Dr. Sloka Iyengar we have!  Sloka is very enthusiastic, energetic, warm, kind and an amazing person! Dance itself is a great exercise. It teaches you how to balance and coordinate. It’s not very easy to coordinate the movements of hands, feet and the eyes!  We can tell a story with all the gestures/movements!  I definitely recommend it to all ages who come to the Y! Dr. Sloka Iyengar is a scientist and a professional dancer!  She adapted the lessons to suit our abilities.  She is cool, calm, fun and has a lot of patience!  She is very inspirational to all of us!" 

Cindy Perlis, Former Director, UCSF Art for Recovery (If Not Us, Then Who? The Arts, Healthcare & Wellbeing with the Hidden Truths Project)  

• "I kept thinking how beautiful it was to see how your simple hand movements yesterday could so movingly express feelings, birds, the clouds etc  it felt like a visual painting!" 

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Program manager: Charles Markham

• “My name is Charles Markham and I serve as one of the program managers for the Onsite & Special Programs Department at DOROT. We had the good fortune of working with Sloka to lead a workshop series on Classical Indian Dance for our group of older adults. Through Sloka’s clear and concise instruction our participants were able to learn and experience the rich culture and history connected to the classical dance form. Our department’s mission is to offer our constituents global perspectives through engaging programs that cultivate community and a deep respect for people, arts & culture; Sloka’s classes did not fall short of elevating this mission. She is warm and inviting, she brought a wealth of knowledge, and held space for participants to learn, grow, and have fun. The innate connection between storytelling and movement within the Classical Indian Dance form resonated with our community as it allowed them to move but also find their own voice within the practice. We welcome Sloka back to DOROT with open arms anytime because she is not only an experienced, educated, and engaging facilitator but also a wonderful human to work with.”
  
  

Participant: Dr. Elisa de la Roche

• "Sloka brings a new perspective to teaching which includes healing though dance. She uses Bharatanatyam, an Indian dance style, which includes mudras (hand gestures), rhythms with the feet, and storytelling with the hands, eyes and face. Her lessons are inclusive, and most people, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, or health condition, can easily access her message, which is the joy of movement, the expressiveness of the hands and face to tell a story, and the music and rhythm of the whole body. Her teaching style is kind, open-minded and non-judgmental, allowing each person to feel valued. Her students come away feeling renewed, joyful, as well as being part of world culture."

Participant: Ms. Carol Schachter 

• "One mother and daughter dressed in ceremonial saris during one of the series,  and there were tears of joy and sorrow at her last episode. I am not embarrassed to say some of those tears were of my own; however, they were tears of joy because I knew I'd be seeing my dear friend again and again. And this is only one tiny aspect of the global outreach Dr. Iyengar employs to give Bharatanatyam immortality and in the process to honor relatives, living and deceased, of her own. This passion is both personal and international."