Anjana Srinivasan

Ideally 4 years and above is best. Younger than that, children may not be able to develop interest, and at 4 years, they will be ready and prime to learn. 

But, I will suggest that if she likes to dance, abhi ke liye, encourage her to move to songs she likes and dance away. Then in a year's time, she will be ready and excited to learn. 

Any age above four years, in my opinion, is good to begin training in Bharathanatyam. Younger than that, the child may not be old enough to know what they are interested in. This age and older is also good because, along with learning, Bharathanatyam (or any dance form, for that matter) also brings body control, discipline, stability, and a way of expression. Although it is a good idea to start early, it is also true that no age is too old to begin.

Most definitely! 12 is young enough that the child can be moulded into a ballet dancer while also being old enough to pick up and grasp technique well. Ballet requires discipline and approach, sure, but, ultimately, it is about the child's interest. If the 12-year-old is enthusiastic and passionate to learn, the age need not even be a factor!