Shyamla (they/them) is an independent artist working at the intersection of movement, sound, and storytelling. Drawing from their Girmitiya heritage, Tamil ancestry, and 35+ years of dance experience, their practice fuses contemporary expression with traditional artforms including Parai Attam (drumming dance), Silambam and Kuthu Verasai (martial arts) and Yogic movement.

In 2019, they founded BINDI BOSSES, a South Asian arts collective known for bold performances that challenge stereotypes and reclaim cultural narratives. Shyamla has performed and facilitated across major platforms including Sydney Opera House, TEDxSydney and 4A Centre for Contemporary Asian Art.

A recipient of the 2020 Multicultural NSW Premier’s Harmony Medal, they hold a Master of International Human Rights Law & Policy and remain committed to community-centred, embodied practice. As a choreographer, they’ve created works for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, Schools Spectacular and the NBL. Their appearances span Parramatta Pride, Sony Music, SBS, ABC, Vogue India and Tamil Guardian.

Photo Credits: Maja Baska, Anna Hay, Annapurna Disha Mukherjee and Ammar Jamal