A pioneer and fearless crusader, she was the
first highborn Indian lady, to espouse the cause of Bharata Natyam,
which was considered a low and vulgar art in the early twenties. Recognizing
the beauty and spiritual value of this art form, she had the courage
not only to learn the dance, but also to present it on stage in spite
of strong public protest. Her marriage to Dr. George Arundale was
another shocking break from tradition and she faced the public outcry
and ostracism with great courage.
Rukmani Devi
Drawn into the Theosophical Movement, as a follower
of Dr. Annie Besant, and her own husband who was a great triot and
educationist, Rukmini Devi travelled all over the world as an ambassador
of Indian culture. She established, eBesant Theosophical High School
and the Besant Arundale senior Secondary School to impart education
based on traditional Indian values.
The Montessori method was first stated in India,
when Dr. Arundale invited Dr. Maria Montessori to start courses in
the Besant Theosophical High School in 1939. Rukmini Devi was nominated
as member of the Rajya Sabha (Council of States) by the president
of the Republic of India in April 1952 and re-nominated in 1956. Keenly
interested in nimal Welfare, She was associated with various humanitarian
organisations.
As a Member of the Rajya Sabha, she was argely responsible for the
legislation for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (1960) and
for setting up of the Animal Welfare Board under her chairmanship
in 1962, to promote their welfare. She was a strict vegetarian and
did much work to promote vegetarianism in the country.
Sports Day
The students are coached for the SSLC examination
conducted by the Government of Tamil Nadu. It is a co-educational
institution. In addition to the purely academic courses, the students
can take dance or music courses in Rukmini Devi College of Fine Arts.
The Medium of instrction is Tamil, and choice of English medium is
offered from the sixth standard.
