Breaking Boundaries, Shattering Stereotypes – An IAS Officer’s Unstoppable Quest to Revive Her Rhythm

In a world where career demands often clash with personal aspirations, Dr. N. Vijaya Lakshmi’s journey is a powerful reminder that human potential knows no bounds. As an accomplished IAS officer with 29 years of dedicated service, Dr. Lakshmi currently serves as the Principal Secretary in the Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Resources Department of Bihar. Yet, her story goes beyond public service; it is also a story of rekindling a deep-seated passion for Bharatanatyam, the classical Indian dance form. Dr. Lakshmi’s life beautifully illustrates that with unwavering determination, dreams can be pursued and fulfilled at any age or stage.

Growing up in Andhra Pradesh, Dr. Lakshmi’s fascination with Bharatanatyam began in her childhood. Her family moved frequently due to her father’s job, which made formal dance training a challenge. She was, however, drawn to the captivating dance sequences in Telugu films, particularly those directed by Kasinadhuni Viswanath, who masterfully integrated classical dance into his storytelling. Watching these scenes, she would imagine herself in the place of the actors, her mind echoing the grace and rhythm of Bharatanatyam. “Whenever I saw actors performing Bharatanatyam, I imagined myself in their place,” she recalls with a smile. But the family’s continuous relocations and the lack of accessible teachers at the time prevented her from pursuing dance.

Dr. N. Vijaya Lakshmi’s journey is a testament to relentless ambition and intellectual brilliance. Known for her academic prowess, she consistently excelled in her studies, earning top ranks throughout her educational career. Driven by an unyielding focus, she achieved two master’s degrees and went on to earn a PhD in Management from IIT Delhi. Her professional journey took flight after clearing the highly competitive Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam, securing her place in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) with the Bihar cadre.

As Dr. Lakshmi’s career soared, she assumed increasingly impactful roles, advancing from District Collector to her current position as Principal Secretary. Her steadfast dedication to public service shone in her accomplishments, particularly in her role as Secretary of Agriculture, where she spearheaded initiatives that led to record-breaking agricultural output in Bihar. Her contributions brought numerous accolades and recognition, but amidst these professional milestones, her lifelong passion for Bharatanatyam—a classical Indian dance form she had cherished since childhood—remained quietly alive, waiting to be rekindled.

Beyond her administrative success, Dr. Lakshmi has enriched the public discourse through her scholarly contributions. She has authored insightful articles for newspapers, published research in respected journals, and guided the development of various publications, information packs, and materials for public use. Her work spans diverse themes within public policy and its implementation, amplifying her influence beyond her immediate administrative roles. Dr. Lakshmi’s journey illustrates that the pursuit of excellence in one’s career and the nurturing of cultural passions can indeed coexist, each fueling the other toward a life of meaning and impact.

While on central deputation in Delhi, that ember grew. Taking her daughter to Kuchipudi dance classes, she felt the tug of her childhood passion. Her daughter’s teacher even suggested that Dr. Lakshmi join the classes, rekindling her long-lost dream. Despite her initial hesitation — due to age, time constraints, and professional obligations — the desire to dance resurfaced with fervor. “At that time, I was busy with my PhD and had no time. I also felt that I was too old to learn,” she admits. Yet the notion lingered in her mind, a quiet reminder of the calling she had put aside.

Back in Bihar in 2008, Dr. Lakshmi finally took the plunge. At 40 years old, she enrolled in Bharatanatyam classes at the Bhartiya Nritya Kala Mandir in Patna, diving headfirst into a world of disciplined rhythm and storytelling. Balancing her demanding career, family, and rigorous dance training required resilience, but her dedication saw her through. Within a year, she performed at the Rajgir Mahotsava, marking the beginning of a fulfilling journey as a Bharatanatyam dancer. For Dr. Lakshmi, dance became more than an art form; it was a reconnection with her heritage, a means to express a passion that transcended the weight of her professional responsibilities.

Her journey hasn’t been without challenges. As an IAS officer, the demands of her role often leave little room for artistic pursuits. Her recent assignments, including initiatives and additional responsibilities, only intensify the struggle for balance. Yet, when the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily slowed life’s pace, she seized the moment to reconnect with dance. “I started expressing whatever came to my mind through dancing,” she says, reflecting on how the pandemic allowed her to dive deeper into her creative side. She even began sharing her performances on YouTube, inspiring others by showing that passion knows no age limit.

Dr. Lakshmi’s love for the arts isn’t limited to dance; she’s also an ardent admirer of Telugu literature, with Devulapalli Krishnasastri, a renowned Telugu poet, ranking among her favorites. Her affinity for literature speaks to an intellectual curiosity that has shaped her personal and professional life. “I have read one full library of books,” she fondly recalls. This passion for literature and the arts fuels her compassion and wisdom, qualities that resonate in her work as a public servant.

Her journey is a powerful testament to the idea that age, professional duties, and life’s un-predictabilities need not stifle one’s passion. For Dr. Lakshmi, Bharatanatyam is both a creative outlet and a source of inner strength. The rhythmic precision and expressive storytelling of Bharatanatyam help her find balance, offering a way to reconnect with herself and her culture. This balance allows her to navigate the pressures of public service with a sense of joy and fulfillment.

Dr. N. Vijaya Lakshmi’s story embodies a commitment to cultural heritage, transforming her personal passion into a living legacy. Beyond her own love for Bharatanatyam, she actively nurtures this art in her daughter, an emerging talent herself, fostering a deep, generational appreciation for classical dance. Together, they exemplify that artistic expression and professional ambition can harmoniously coexist, proving that the pursuit of culture and creativity can flourish alongside the demands of career and family. Their journey together speaks not only to personal fulfillment but also to the preservation of a rich artistic tradition, inspiring others to balance heritage with modern life.

Dr. N. Vijaya Lakshmi’s journey is a radiant celebration of resilience, courage, and the boundless human spirit, exemplifying a balance between professional dedication and personal passion. Her life encourages us to pause and reflect on our own dreams, challenging us to nurture them amidst life’s demands. She reminds us that, even amid the busyness, there is always room for joy, creativity, and self-expression. Through her journey, she shows that pursuing one’s passions provides strength, solace, and purpose, while her commitment to Bharatnatyam goes beyond personal fulfillment. It is an homage to her roots, a tribute to cultural heritage, and an inspiration to anyone who believes that dreams are worth pursuing, no matter the age, no matter the obstacles.

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