Ragas, Indian Music Institute Buckingham Drive, Rowville, Victoria 3178

"I was a student with Pooja for 2 terms in her group classes and enjoyed my learning with her. She is a wonderful teacher from whom I was learning well. Unfortunately, I have been unable to continue my learning. Due to my disability, I require a support worker to assist me in accessing the class. After two terms Pooja says that I am no longer allowed to bring a support worker. She objected to having my support worker assist me unless they also paid to be a student. Pooja’s reason was that it was unfair to the other students. My support worker is there to support me and her focus is on meeting my needs, she was not involved in the class and did not affect the tone of the class or the other students learning. My support worker does have a music background which is why I have chosen her to work with me and Pooja believed she was learning from her unfairly. (As I understand the law, I believe I should not be discriminated against in this way.) I attempted to discuss this with Pooja but no favourable outcome could be reached. I now no longer feel welcome or comfortable in her class. I do wish her and her family the best."

"When we started with Ragas, I was not sure if my daughter would sit at one place for the class duration. Now, not only she sits, but looks forward to her classes. She thoroughly enjoys her singing lessons and has developed a fondness for Hindustani Classical Music. I have also noticed that she has started practicing on her own. Pooja ji is a beautiful singer herself and a very kind and patient teacher one can ask for. I am glad that my daughter has Pooja ji as her guru to guide her on her musical journey. Thank you!"

"I’ve been wanting to learn kathak ever since I was a kid, but somehow never got the chance. When my daughter turned 9, I decided that this was something we should both do - learn kathak together. And Ragas made this dream come true! Pooja is an extremely patient kathak guru who adapts her teaching style to the students needs. Her knowledge of the dance form coupled with immense grace makes her the perfect guru and inspiration for us students. Me and my daughter thoroughly enjoy our kathak class and look forward to it every week!"

"If you are wanting to love Kathak and have it become a part of you... this is the place to come to learn. Pooja takes you on the journey to learn and love the dance form. She is a teacher who is passionate about the dance form and makes this passion do the teaching. She is dedicated not only to teach the students of all ages but also for making them learn at their speed and will work with you to make it your own style."

"My daughter and I take vocal music lessons at Ragas Institute. We really enjoy and look forward attending classes each week. Pooja is a great teacher and she provides a positive and lively learning experience. Vandana"