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Kuchipudi's Grand Voyage: Artists Set Sail on Epic 63-Day Sampurna Bharata Yatra

In a remarkable endeavor to promote the rich cultural heritage of Kuchipudi, a group of passionate artists from Rajamahendravaram, Andhra Pradesh, have embarked on a 63-day journey across India. The Sampurna Bharata Yatra, organized by Sri Radhakrishna Kalakshetra and Sri Radhakrishna Trust, aims to showcase the profound beauty of this indigenous dance form by performing at popular temples in 22 states. Led by renowned Kuchipudi dancer GB Narayana and Uma Jayasree, the cultural expedition commenced on August 11 from the Ainavilli pilgrim center and is set to cover a distance of 16,000 kilometers. The group, representing Sri Radhakrishna Kalakshetra, has been instrumental in preserving and promoting Indian classical music and dance forms for over four decades. With a strong emphasis on propagating Sanatana Dharma (eternal righteousness), the artists have received blessings from the revered Kanchi and Sringeri Peethams. The tour aims to familiarize the younger generation with India's rich traditions and cultural heritage. Notably, the Sri Radhakrishna Kalakshetra recently achieved a significant milestone by performing a Kuchipudi rendition of Hanuman Chalisa 108 times, setting five world records. This feat solidifies their pioneering status in the realm of classical dance. The Sampurna Bharata Yatra will witness performances at a total of 85 temples across India, offering a unique opportunity for parents who wish their children to showcase their talent at these sacred venues. Central ministers from respective states will also be informed of the itinerary, encouraging their attendance and support. As the artists crisscross the country, their journey not only celebrates the magnificence of Kuchipudi but also reinforces the essence of India's cultural tapestry, inspiring generations to embrace their heritage and preserve the nation's artistic legacy.

17 Aug 2023

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Star Citizens

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Beating All Odds: Young Girl Overcomes Her Disability To Win Award From President

The Sky is the limit for sixteen-year-old Shreya Mishra, who in spite of being affected by Down Syndrome battled all odds to become an ace award-winning national classical dancer. Her parents Srikakulam-based Sivaprasad Mishra and Padmavathi Mahapatro were devastated when at the age of three, Shreya was diagnosed with Down Syndrome. Life changed for them drastically as they began the rounds of hospitals for Shreya’s treatment. Her mother Padmavathi quit her job to become a mentor and escort for her. But when the couple saw 5-year-old Shreya shaking her leg to music, their lives took a turn for the better. Padmavathi made the decision to not let Shreya's dance talents be hindered by her disability at that point. Up till class 7, Shreya attended St. Joseph's School in Parlakhemundi, Odisha. She completed the remainder of her education at Pathapatnam's Vignan School. Shreya also took lessons in dance. To hone Shreya’s innate dance skills,  Padmavathi traveled at least 120 kilometers every three days of the week from Pathapatnam to Srikakulam. However, the pandemic just made everything worse for her, yet she didn’t lose hope. Padmavathi enrolled her in an online dance class and so Shreya’s practice continued without interruption. On the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in New Delhi, her years of struggle paid off as she was presented with the Shresth Divyang Balika award by President Droupadi Murmu. Shreya is a Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam expert who has performed on at least 45 stages nationwide. The happy and proud parents of Shreya believe that this award is the culmination of their 16-year struggle to get their daughter admitted into schools for her education and to travel to various hospitals for treatment. Padmavathi believes that every special child has a latent talent that should be nurtured by rendering the proper support and encouragement.

21 Dec 2022

Star Citizens

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School students in Vishakapatnam aim to achieve Guinness record

On the occasion of Ambedkar Jayanti, a function was held at the AU Engineering College grounds on Tuesday where 7,000 students from 21 social welfare residential schools performed a record Kuchipudi dance and are hoping to make it to the Guinness Book of Records. Chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu was also present at the function. After the splendid performance, the CM addressed the gathering. Stating that it is the people's responsibility to protect our heritage, he said that the  state government has allotted Rs 100 crore for the development of Kuchipudi. Praising this beautiful dance form, he said that Kuchipudi not only increases physical and mental strength, but also helps in personality development. The CM said that the government is planning to provide training in the dance form in all state high schools. He urged all parents to encourage their children to take up Kuchipudi. To popularize this dance form, the government is planning to set up a Kuchipudi academy in Amaravati. The CM then participated in the 191st birth anniversary celebrations of Jyotirao Phule at the AU convocation hall. He praised Phule for contributing extensively to the society and said that the government is following Phule's footsteps by implementing many schemes for the backward communities. Later, the CM offered a gold crown to Goddess Nookambica at Anakapalli and inaugurated a 150-bed mother and child care centre in the city.

14 Apr 2017

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