Artist-in-Residence Hari Krishnan is a self-proclaimed “diva” and much beloved instructor of the classical South Indian dance Bharatanatyam. Through the hours of squatting and stamping feet, Krishnan keeps his students motivated with the maxim, “The pain will transform into joy.” His positive attitude and continual encouragement helps them to attain that “joy,” as well as some ridiculous quads. Aside from teaching two days a week, Krishnan is also the Artistic Director of a Toronto-based dance group, inDANCE, which combines classic Bharatanatyam with contemporary dance.

As far as this playlist, Krishnan says, “Below are a list of songs I am listening to these days—all the songs below also inspire my choreography and teaching.” Krishnan is choreographing the Faculty Dance next semester, and if these songs are what is inspiring him, it sounds like it will be…well, we’ll let you hear for yourself.

Criminal– Britney Spears
The rite of spring or Le sacre du printemps– Igor Stravisky
Bad Romance– Lady Gaga
Sarojakshiro– Vativel (Tanjavur quartet)
Livin’ la Vida Loca– Ricky Martin
Material Girl – Madonna
Chamak Challo (from Ra 1)– Vishal Shekhar
Get the Party Started– Pink
Malligai En Mannan Vantatu– M.S. Viswanthan
Love on Top– Beyonce