Prepare your child for an extraordinary future at Ekya Nava, India's first International School of Innovation, Creativity and Design.

Imagine a school where your child’s purpose is uncovered, their creativity is nurtured, where innovation is embraced, and where they’re equipped to tackle real-world challenges. With visionary educators, local & global industry mentors, cutting-edge facilities, and real-world connections, we redefine education. 

Who We Are

Ekya Nava is India’s first international school of innovation, creativity, and design, where education evolves into purpose. Inspired by the Sanskrit word “Nava,” meaning new, we represent the future of learning. Through four distinct pathways, Design, Making, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and Information Technology and Society, students explore ideas, build with intent, think like creators, and engage with the systems shaping the world. We empower them to think differently, solve real-world problems, and step into bold possibilities in careers yet to be imagined.

Global Vision

We equip your child for a borderless world where their impact knows no bounds.

Inspiring mentors

Our educators and industry experts guide them towards excellence.

Cutting-Edge Spaces

State-of-the-art classrooms, labs and creative hubs foster boundless curiosity.

Community Connections

We bridge the gap between education and the real world, empowering your child to thrive.

Legacy

With over 30 years of educational legacy, we have served more than 20,000 students, from Montessori & Kindergarten to Postgraduate & Doctoral Studies.

The CMR Group of Institutions was established as a tribute to the visionary educationist Sri Chikka Muniyappa Reddy (CMR). Over the decades, the Group has spread across Bangalore , offering a wide array of academic programs in engineering, education, law, management, biosciences, business administration, and psychology at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels.

Extending its global footprint, the Group partnered with the National Educational Trust to inaugurate the NPS International School in Singapore, a sprawling 6-acre campus. Through its schools, research centers, pre-university colleges, and private universities, the CMR Group continues to empower learners at every stage.

Ekya Schools, a progressive chain of K-12 institutions, is a proud part of the CMR legacy, embodying its vision of academic excellence and innovation. The latest addition to this legacy is Ekya Nava & Ekya Vana.

CMR University was established with a vision to advance higher education across technical, health, management, and life sciences. At CMR University, creativity is viewed as the cornerstone for excelling in today’s dynamic world. We recognise the importance of fostering independent thinkers, artists, designers, product leaders, and innovators to meet the demands of the future. Through a focus on creative concepts and design thinking, we equip students with essential skills such as teamwork, presentation, initiative, and research capabilities. CMR University is committed to fostering creative communities where students are encouraged to explore, discover, and create, shaping a brighter future.

Established in 2010, Ekya Schools, a part of the CMR Group of Institutions, is a progressive chain of K-12 schools that fosters a strong sense of community and collaboration. With a focus on active learning, the schools nurture curiosity and inquisitiveness in students. Ekya’s student-centric curriculum, teaching methods, and assessment practices are grounded in the latest research and evidence. To ensure consistently high learning standards, Ekya’s educators undergo specialised professional development through in-house designed programs.

Ekya Nava, India’s first International School of Innovation, Creativity, and Design, marks a groundbreaking chapter in Ekya Schools’ legacy. Focused on purpose-based education, it empowers students to innovate, create, and design solutions for real-world challenges. Through hands-on learning pathways and expert mentorship, students connect their passions with global needs, fostering a community of innovators, problem-solvers, technopreneurs, and changemakers ready to shape the future.

Legacy

Over 30 years of educational legacy serving more than 20,000 students from Montessori to Post-doctoral degrees

Progressive K-12 Schools in Bangalore across five campuses

CMR University (CMRU) is a private university in the state of Karnataka, established and governed by the CMR University Act 2013

Includes the prestigious CMR Institute of Technology, CMR Pre-University Colleges and NPS International School, Singapore

Board of Governors

Driving strategic vision and innovation in educational standards. 

Dr. Tristha Ramamurthy 

Dr. Tristha Ramamurthy 

Founder, Ekya Schools | Vice President, CMR Group of Institutions 

Dr. Tristha Ramamurthy, a pioneer VP of CMR Group and founder of Ekya Schools, champions innovative, global pedagogies. A Stanford and King's College alum, she's transforming Indian education, fostering 20,000+ future leaders.

K. R. Jayadeep 

K. R. Jayadeep 

Pro-Chancellor, CMR University 

K.R. Jayadeep, Pro-Chancellor of CMR University, drives its expansion with innovation. Mastermind behind its modern 60-acre campus, he's established 9 specialised schools offering industry-relevant academic programs. 

Dr. Sabitha Ramamurthy 

Dr. Sabitha Ramamurthy 

President, CMR Jnanadhara Trust | Chancellor, CMR University  

Dr. Sabitha Ramamurthy, the visionary founder of CMR Jnanadhara Trust, transformed a simple orchard school into a beacon of education with 20 institutions in Bengaluru, impacting thousands of students annually. 

Shri. K. C. Ramamurthy (IPS, Rtd) 

Shri. K. C. Ramamurthy (IPS, Rtd) 

Chairman, CMR Group | Former Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha 

Shri. K.C. Ramamurthy, a distinguished IPS veteran and former Registrar of Bangalore University, is renowned for his commitment to education. A Rajya Sabha member since 2016, he shapes policy on urban development and youth affairs. 

Advisors

Industry leaders who believe in Ekya Nava’s vision and are committed to transforming the educational experience for the next generation.

Anirvan Chowdhury

Anirvan Chowdhury

Ambassador

Investment Director, Qualcomm Ventures

in

Investor across enterprise tech, SaaS, deep tech, and healthcare across India and global markets. Ex- Vice President at Premji Invest and Blume Ventures. Investor and board observer in numerous companies including LambdaTest, Capillary, and Shadowfax.

Varada Rajan Krishna

Varada Rajan Krishna

Ambassador

Co-founder, The 100 Open Startups | Senior Investment Advisor, Discovery Nxt

in

Serial tech entrepreneur and angel investor with 30+ years building and scaling technology ventures across telecom, cleantech, and software domains. Multiple exits including two IPOs; mentored 300+ founders across global incubation and accelerator programs.

Arvind Malhan

Arvind Malhan

Ambassador

Partner, New Silk Route

in

Senior Private Equity & Venture Capital investor across India and US, focused on growth investments across business services and consumer services companies leveraging technology. Former leadership roles at J.P. Morgan and New Enterprise Associates led multiple IPOs across portfolio companies.

Madhav Krishna

Madhav Krishna

Ambassador

Founder and CEO, Vahan.ai

in

Entrepreneur building an AI-driven hiring platform and creating opportunities for India’s 400M+ blue-collar workers. Recognised as a Technology Pioneer by the World Economic Forum. Former Product & Engineering Lead at Adstruc.

Jyotsna Pattabiraman

Jyotsna Pattabiraman

Ambassador

Partner, Aureolis Ventures

in

nvestor across climate, health, and deeptech with experience building global products and companies. Founder & former CEO of Grow Fit; held leadership positions at Knowlarity, D&B, Yahoo, eBay, and Oracle.

Vikaash Khdloya

Vikaash Khdloya

Ambassador

Founder & Managing Partner, Boundless Capita

in

Investor & entrepreneur backing high-growth businesses across markets. Former CEO of Embassy REIT and one of the youngest Managing Directors at Blackstone, overseeing a $5B real estate portfolio in India. Served on 45+ portfolio company boards across global private equity-backed businesses; Recognised as a “40 Under Forty” Business Leader by The Economic Times.

Dr. Nandlal L Sharda

Dr. Nandlal L Sharda

Advisor

Former Professor, IIT Bombay

in

Over 4 decades of experience in leadership roles, including Head of the Computer Science Department, Dean of Academic Programmes, and Professor of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at IIT Bombay.

Abhijit Bose

Abhijit Bose

Advisor

Founder & CEO, AmbyTech | Former Head of WhatsApp India

in

Business leader and entrepreneur with 25+ years of experience building and scaling products and businesses in the US and Asia. Aspen Fellow; Co-founder & Former CEO of Ezetap, acquired by Razorpay. Board Member at Navi; held leadership roles at Intuit and Oracle.

Sanjay Shah

Sanjay Shah

Advisor

Former COO, Wadhwani Foundation

in

Three decades of experience building, scaling, and backing technology ventures across India and US. Co-founder and led multiple ventures, including Skelta, Zapty, Instavans, and Everest Software, with multiple acquisitions. Angel investor in Uniphore, FarEye, Loginext and numerous others.

Khurram Masood

Khurram Masood

Advisor

Co-founder & CEO, Smalt

in

European entrepreneur and product leader building an AI-first back office for the Blue Collar Trades. Chairperson of the Advisory Board at CODE University; Co-founder of African Leadership University; Former CPO at Sharpist and ex-McKinsey Associate Partner.

Vikram Vaidyanathan

Vikram Vaidyanathan

Advisor

Managing Director, Z47

in

Investor backing early-stage companies across India in financial services, AI, software, and consumer. Investor and board member at Razorpay, Atomicwork, OfBusiness, Jupiter, Rocketlane, Mswipe.

Azeez Gupta

Azeez Gupta

Ambassador

Co-Founder, Rocket Learning

in

Social entrepreneur building one of India’s largest early childhood non-profits Ashoka Fellow; BusinessWorld’s 40 under 40 Disruptor, Bloomberg New Economy Catalyst, Gates Foundation Goalkeeper and DRK Fellow Former Head of Strategic Initiatives at Pratham Education Foundation

Dr. Raoul- Gabriel Urma

Dr. Raoul- Gabriel Urma

Advisor

Founder & Group CEO, Cambridge Spark

in

Entrepreneur building data and AI capability across global enterprises; training 20,000+ professionals across 100+ organisations. Former roles at Google, eBay, Oracle, and Goldman Sachs; PhD in Computer Science from Cambridge.

Darren Wang

Darren Wang

Advisor

Founder & CEO, OwlTing Group

in

Taiwanese entrepreneur focused on blockchain, crypto, and global platforms. Leads OwlTing Group, providing e-commerce, hospitality, and supply chain solutions with presence across the US and Asia. Founder of OBOOK; investor in MomentX Metaverse, CoolBitX, MaiCoin, and numerous other firms.

Mekin Maheshwari

Mekin Maheshwari

Advisor

Founder & CEO, Udhyam Learning Foundation

in

Social entrepreneur and investor building grassroots entrepreneurship ecosystems across India. Former Chief People Officer at Flipkart; Co-founded ACT Grants and Global Alliance for Mass Entrepreneurship; Investor in Urban Company, Quizziz, Crio.do, Pratilipi, and numerous others.

Mary Li 

Mary Li 

Advisor

Founder & CEO, Atlas | Singapore's Top 100 Women in Tech

in

Serial entrepreneur in global travel technology and flight distribution. Founded ASLAN, the largest air ticket platform in China before its acquisition by Alitrip (Fliggy), Alibaba’s online travel platform; Former Co CEO at Mystifly.

Vikram Vaidyanathan 

Vikram Vaidyanathan 

Pathway & Board Advisor

Managing Director, Matrix Partners 

in

Entrepreneurship & Innovation Pathway

Vikram, a dynamic entrepreneur, partners with startups in fintech, edtech, and more, contributing to India's growth story. His rich career spans various roles and industries, all driving his passion for innovation. 

Rajan Patel

Rajan Patel

Advisor

Director, Stanford Seed Programs at Stanford Graduate School of Business

in

Entrepreneur and educator working at the intersection of design thinking and innovation across Stanford GSB, Stanford d.school, Centre for Asia Leadership, ATÖLYE Istanbul, and global programs across the US and Asia. Co-founder & former CEO of Dent Education; part of the founding team at Embrace, with products used across 20+ countries.

Prepare your child for an extraordinary future at Ekya Nava, India’s & Asia's first K-12 Maker School of Innovation, Creativity & Design.

Imagine a school where your child’s purpose is uncovered, their creativity is nurtured, where innovation is embraced, and where they’re equipped to tackle real-world challenges. With visionary educators, local & global industry mentors, cutting-edge facilities, and real-world connections, we redefine education. 

Pathways for Purposeful Learning

As a purpose-based school with a rigorous core curriculum, Ekya Nava offers Real-World Oriented Pathways to inspire innovation, creativity, and leadership.

Instilling empathy and sustainability, cultivating innovative solutions, nurturing creativity, and preparing learners to shape a better world through purposeful design for transformation.

Ekya Nava nurtures a ‘Go beyond’ spirit, empowering students to explore creativity and innovation while delving deeper into the intricacies of the making process.

Fostering creative entrepreneurs: Going beyond design, business, and ethics to foster creativity and an entrepreneurial mindset and spirit.

Multidisciplinary frontier technology-enabled education: AI, Blockchain, Quantum Tech, for a holistic understanding of Information Technology and Society.

Innovation & Entrepreneurship

Information Technology & Society

The Story Behind the Journey

With over 30 years of educational legacy, we have served more than 20,000 students, from Montessori to Post-doctoral levels.

The CMR Group of Institutions was established as a tribute to the visionary educationist Sri Chikka Muniyappa Reddy. Over the decades, the Group has spread across Bangalore with 11 active campuses, offering a wide array of academic programs in engineering, education, law, management, biosciences, business administration, and psychology at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels.

Extending its global footprint, the Group partnered with the National Educational Trust to inaugurate the NPS International School in Singapore, a sprawling 6-acre campus. Through its schools, research centers, pre-university colleges, and private universities, the CMR Group continues to empower learners at every stage.

Ekya Schools, a progressive chain of K-12 institutions, is a proud part of the CMR legacy, embodying its vision of academic excellence and innovation. The latest addition to this legacy is Ekya Nava, India’s first international school of innovation, creativity, and design.

CMR University was founded with the vision of advancing higher education in technical, health, management, and life sciences. At CMRU, creativity is viewed as the cornerstone for excelling in today’s dynamic world. We recognise the importance of fostering independent thinkers, artists, designers, product leaders, and innovators to meet the demands of the future. Through a focus on creative concepts and design thinking, we equip students with essential skills such as teamwork, presentation, initiative, and research capabilities. CMRU is committed to building creative communities where students are encouraged to explore, discover, and create, shaping a brighter future.

Established in 2010, Ekya Schools, a part of the CMR Group of Institutions, is a progressive chain of K-12 schools that fosters a strong sense of community and collaboration. With a focus on active learning, the schools nurture curiosity and inquisitiveness in students. Ekya’s student-centric curriculum, teaching methods, and assessment practices are grounded in the latest research and evidence. To uphold exceptional learning standards, Ekya’s educators engage in specialised professional development programs designed in-house.

Ekya Nava, India’s first International School of Innovation, Creativity, and Design, marks a groundbreaking chapter in Ekya Schools’ legacy. Focused on purpose-based education, it empowers students to innovate, create, and design solutions for real-world challenges. Through hands-on learning pathways and expert mentorship, students connect their passions with global needs, fostering a community of innovators, technopreneurs, and changemakers ready to shape the future.

Students representing Ukraine and France at an international event at EKYA School Bangalore, demonstrating the global education approach of IGCSE schools in Bangalore

GLOBAL VISION

We equip your child for a borderless world where their impact knows no bounds.

Students at EKYA Schools Bangalore sharing a joyful group hug, representing the collaborative and supportive learning environment at international schools in Bangalore

INSPIRING MENTORS

Our educators and industry experts guide them towards excellence.

Modern interior architecture of EKYA NAVA campus in Panathur, featuring bright yellow walls and contemporary design elements typical of premier IGCSE schools in Bangalore

CUTTING-EDGE SPACES

State-of-the-art classrooms, labs and creative hubs foster boundless creativity.

EKYA students participating in an animal care activity, holding small dogs as part of purpose-based learning initiatives at international schools in Bangalore, demonstrating practical community engagement

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

We bridge the gap between education and the real world, empowering your child to thrive.

Inspirational message at EKYA NAVA featuring a gymnast in handstand position, highlighting how the international school in Panathur transforms students into future leaders through purpose-based learning

Ekya Nava Campus: Where Form meets Function

At Ekya Nava, we’ve harnessed the transformative power of environment design to create a truly exceptional campus.

Modern laboratory at EKYA NAVA international school in Bangalore, featuring yellow workstations and wall graphics displaying learning metrics, demonstrating state-of-the-art facilities for IGCSE curriculum
Split view of EKYA NAVA's interior featuring yellow-themed corridors with student silhouettes and advanced botany lab, representing innovative learning spaces at international schools in Panathur

Leadership

Ms. Payal Sharma
Vice Principal

Ms. Payal Sharma, Vice Principal at Ekya Nava, brings over two decades of experience in education, with a strong focus on academic excellence and holistic development. A firm advocate of student-centered learning, she draws daily inspiration from the energy and curiosity of her students, creating a supportive environment where each learner feels seen and valued.
She is dedicated to equipping students with essential 21st-century skills such as analytical thinking, communication, and collaboration. Under her leadership, students have consistently achieved strong outcomes, and many have been guided by her through prestigious science competitions. She works closely with teachers and parents to build a nurturing and well-rounded learning ecosystem.
Committed to continuous growth, Ms. Sharma holds a Master’s degree in Chemistry and a degree in Education, along with professional training from Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania. Her involvement in community service and voluntary teaching further reflects her commitment to enriching the educational journey of every student at Ekya Nava.

Our Revolutionary Campus:
Where Design Meets Distinction

At Ekya Nava, we’ve harnessed the transformative power of environmental design to create a truly exceptional campus.

Modern laboratory at EKYA NAVA international school in Bangalore, featuring yellow workstations and wall graphics displaying learning metrics, demonstrating state-of-the-art facilities for IGCSE curriculum
Split view of EKYA NAVA's interior featuring yellow-themed corridors with student silhouettes and advanced botany lab, representing innovative learning spaces at international schools in Panathur

Our visionary space boasts

Exposed Building Surfaces

Witness the inner workings of our architectural masterpiece, where students gain insights into mechanical systems.

Cascading Atrium

A central hub of creativity and innovation.

Maker Labs

6000 sq. ft of open labs for hands-on exploration.

Design Lab

A haven for product design, art, and crafts.

Cutting-Edge Technology

Information Technology and S.T.R.E.A.M Museum.

Purpose-Designed Classrooms

Flooded with natural light and ventilation.

Creative Showcases

Corridor “shop windows” showcase student work.

State-of-the-Art Science Labs

For both primary and middle school.

Vertical Gardens

In senior science labs, connecting nature and education.

Sports Excellence

A 15,000 sq. ft sports arena for athletic prowess.

Multimedia Assembly Area

Where ideas take centre stage.

Futuristic Facade

Blending aesthetics with billboards, LED screens, vertical gardens, and wind turbines.

Dining Ambiance

Indoor and outdoor student dining experiences.

AV Room

Designed for immersive learning.

Library Oasis

Featuring casual and serious reading zones, plus a digital library.

Teacher Resource Center

Empowering educators for success.

Well-Being and Counseling

Ensuring the holistic development of each student.

Early Years Exclusive Entrance

A warm welcome for our youngest learners.

Discover Ekya Nava

Where design & innovation unite to redefine the educational experience.

Welcome to the future of learning! 

Frequently asked questions

Where can I find the school calendar for this academic year?

The school calendar is available on our website. You may access it by clicking here.

How do I apply for admission to Ekya Nava?
  • Fill the enquiry form at nava.ekyaschools.com
  • In invitation link will be emailed to proceed with the application. Alternatively click here to start your application.
  • Complete the application and submit the required documentation.
  • Candidates must sit for the Ekya Nava SET (Student Entrance Test) for final qualification.
 
When does the admissions process start at Ekya Nava?

Admissions for Academic year 2026-2027, for all programs are ongoing.

Is there an entrance test at Ekya Nava?

Yes. We have an observation for the Early Years program and Readiness Check for applicants from Grade 1 to Grade VII. To book the Readiness Session please click here

What curriculum does Ekya Nava offer?

Ekya Nava is a proposed IGCSE / IB school

Which co-curricular activities does Ekya Nava provide?

For a comprehensive list of co-curricular activities at Ekya, click here

 
What is the Fee structure at Ekya Nava?

Once we receive the completed online application and you have visited our campus, the fee structure shall be shared with you.

Can I have a campus tour at Ekya Nava?

Yes, parents can tour our campus during the Experience Walk. Our Experience Walks offer a firsthand experience of our thoughtfully designed campus that promotes engaged learning and growth. To schedule an Experience Walk click here

How is CMR connected to Ekya Nava?

CMR, founded in 1990 by Mr. KC Ramamurthy and Dr. Sabitha Ramamurthy, is the precursor to Ekya Schools, which Dr. Tristha Ramamurthy established in 2010 with Ekya Nava being the first purpose-based school under the Ekya Schools umbrella.

Is there a transport service at Ekya Nava?

Our school transport is not air conditioned. School timings are 8 Am to 3 PM. We don’t have day boarding facilities, instead we have tie ups with day care facilities. We also don’t provide evening snacks and do not have an in house bakery.

What are the school timings at Ekya Nava?
  • Regularly timings (3 days of the week) – 8:10 am to 3:15 pm
  • Extended timings (2 days of the week) – 8:10 am to 4:15 pm
 
Does Ekya Nava have a boarding facility?

While we don’t offer boarding, we do provide a day boarding facility. Our cafeteria serves morning snacks, lunch, and evening snacks. Additionally, students can relish fresh items from our in-house bakery.

 
What is the age criterion for admission at Ekya Nava?

We adhere to government-prescribed age criteria. For grade-specific details, please click here.

When can I meet Ekya Nava’s Head of School?

The ideal time would be during the Open House.

What types of assessments do students undertake at Ekya Nava?

Students undergo a range of assessments, from individual and group tasks to authentic real-world tasks. They are also administered a term review exam and an end-of-term exam.

 
What documents are needed for admissions?

The documents required at the time of application submission include:

  • 5 passport-size photographs
  • Student’s birth certificate
  • Academic records from the past two years (applicable for Montessori Senior/K2 and higher levels)
  • Caste certificate (as mandated by the Government)
  • Identification proof for both parents and the student (Aadhaar or Passport)
How can parents participate in their child's education at Ekya Nava?

Parents play a crucial role in the Ekya Nava learning journey. To engage more deeply, please consider joining our Friends of Ekya Program.

Frequently asked
questions

  • Fill the enquiry form at nava.ekyaschools.com
  • An invitation link will be e-mailed to proceed with the application. Alternatively, click here to start your application.
  • Complete the application and submit the required documentation.
  • Candidates must sit for the Ekya Nava Readiness Secssion for final qualification.
 

Admissions for Academic year 2026-2027, for all programs are ongoing.

Yes, we conduct an interaction for the Early Years program and a Readiness Check for applicants from Grade 1 to Grade VIII. To book the Readiness Session please click here

The school offers IGCSE and IB as its academic foundation. Alongside this, students engage in a structured application layer through four curated pathways: Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Design, Making, and Information technology & Society.

For a comprehensive list of co-curricular activities at Ekya, click here

Once you have submitted your online application and finished your campus tour, the fee structure will be shared with you.

Yes, parents can tour our campus during the Experience Walk. Our Experience Walks offer a firsthand experience of our thoughtfully designed campus that promotes engaged learning and growth. To schedule an Experience Walk click here

CMR Group Of Institutions , founded in 1990 by Dr. K.C. Ramamurthy and Dr. Sabitha Ramamurthy, is the precursor to Ekya Schools, which Dr. Tristha Ramamurthy established in 2010 with Ekya Nava being the first purpose-based school under the Ekya Schools umbrella.

Yes, transport services are available for students. The school operates from 8:00 am to 12:45 pm /3:00 pm, and routes are planned to align with these timings for a smooth and reliable commute.

  • Regular timings  for Montessori Beginners & Montessori Sub-Junior : 8:00 am to 12:45 pm
  • Regular timings From Montessori Junior to Grade 10 : 8:00 am to 03:00 pm
 

While we don’t offer boarding, we do provide a day boarding facility. Our cafeteria serves morning snacks, lunch, and evening snacks. 

The best opportunity to meet the Head of School is during our Open House. For meetings outside of this, you may reach out to us at +91 80-6945 7788 to enquire and schedule a suitable time.

Students undergo a range of assessments, from individual and group tasks to authentic real-world tasks. They also sit for a term review and an end-of-term exam.

The documents required at the time of application submission include – 

  • 5 passport-size photographs
  • Student birth certificate
  • Academic record for last two years (For Montessori Senior / K2 and above)
  • *Caste certificate (as mandated by the Government)
  • ID proof of both the parents and student (Aadhar / Passport)

Parents play a crucial role in the Ekya Nava learning journey. To engage more deeply, please consider joining our Friends of Ekya Program.

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