Harinie Jeevitha

Harinie Jeevitha (Tamil: ஹரிணி ஜீவிதா) is an Indian classical dancer and choreographer. A senior disciple of Sheela Unnikrishnan of Sridevi Nrithyalaya, she started training at the age of six in the Melattur style of Bharatanatyam and, within three months, performed a small role in the production Balaramayanam.

From a very young age, Harinie became a well-known name in dance circles and is "recognized for the depth of research, understanding, and internalization" she brings to her performances. According to The Hans India, Harinie brought "conversational vibrancy" to her work through her "skillful blending of nritta, natya, and abhinaya".

At the age of 9, she performed her first solo and completed her arangetram in 2006. From a very young age, Harinie became a well-known name in dance circles and is 'recognized for the depth of research, understanding, and internalization' she brings to her performances. According to Hans India, Harinie brought 'conversational vibrancy' to her work through her 'skillful blending of nritta, natya, and abhinaya. "Harinie’s performance stood out for its grace and artistry." The Hindu, 2024

In 2009, Harinie was conferred the Bal Shree title by the National Bal Bhavan in the field of Creative Performance, an honor constituted by the Government of India. Dance critic, Rupa Srikanth of The Hindu described Harinie as 'a dancer who has it all: a personable presence, an excellent sense of timing, grace, agility, suppleness, perfection in execution, an expressive face, and a palpable passion.'

In 2023, after participating in eighteen dance dramas choreographed by her teacher, Harinie presented her first independent production, titled Varadarajam Upasmahe.

She has authored and published two poetry collections: Perspectives and The Siblings of Kanchipuram: A Garland of Poems.

Harinie continues to perform at prestigious dance festivals in India and abroad. As of February 2026, Harinie no longer performs as part of Sheela Unnikrishnan's troupe and is not an instructor with Sridevi Nrithayalaya. Instead, she has decided to expand upon her journey as an independent artist and soloist.