From classical dancer to political spokesperson: the multifaceted career of Malavika Avinash

From classical dancer to political spokesperson: the multifaceted career of Malavika Avinash
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In short: Few figures navigate the intersection of classical arts, law, and high-stakes politics as seamlessly as Malavika Avinash. From performing as Krishna on stage to defending controversial tax policies, her journey spans the diverse landscapes of Indian cinema, television, and the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Malavika Avinash’s career is defined by a remarkable breadth of expertise. Her foundations were laid in the classical arts; she began training in Bharatanatyam at age five under her mother, Savithri, a vocalist and dancer. Her formal training included instruction from M. R. Krishnamurthy of Kalakshetra and advanced studies under Padmashri Leela Samson. This artistic discipline extended to the sitar, where she studied under Pandit Partho Das. Her stage presence was recognized early when director G. V. Iyer cast her as Krishna in the 1988 film Krishnavataar.

Beyond the stage, Avinash demonstrated significant academic and professional versatility. She earned a Bachelor of Law from Bangalore University, where she achieved 3rd rank. Her legal acumen was evident early on through her success in international moot courts. This academic background transitioned into a media career that includes hosting talk shows like Agni and the dispute resolution program Baduku Jataka Bandi on E-TV Kannada. She has also served as a programming head at Zee Kannada and as an editor for various publications.

In recent years, Avinash has become a prominent political figure within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). She joined the party in September 2013 and was appointed as a co-spokesperson in February 2014. Her political visibility increased during campaigns for BJP leader Sushma Swaraj in Bellary. However, her political stances have occasionally sparked intense debate, such as in July 2017, when she defended the government's decision to apply Goods and Service Tax to sanitary napkins, sparking significant public backlash.

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