Natyanjali Kuchipudi Dance School, Dallas celebrates Silver Jubilee
Dallas, TX: On March 24, 2024, Irving, Texas, was the setting for a captivating Kuchipudi dance production titled "Kalyana Srinivasam," choreographed by the renowned Padma Shree Sobha Naidu and reimagined and directed by Smt Srilatha Suri. The event marked a significant milestone, celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Natyanjali Kuchipudi Dance School, led by Smt Srilatha Suri.
All guests were received with hearty welcome of Indian traditions by offering kumkum bottu and panneru!
The program commenced with two entrancing dances set to Annamacharya Keertanas, "Sriman Narayana" and "Kandarpa Janaka", captivating the audience with their beauty and mesmerism.
Eminent Indian American community leader Dr. Prasad Thotakura as a special guest initiated the proceedings with remarks that highlighted this landmark anniversary. Adding to the event's prestige, the Mayor of the City Irving, Honorable Rick Stopfer, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest of Honor, declaring March 24 as “Irving City Art Day” in recognition of the event's significance.
Smt Srilatha Suri specially directed this Masterpiece, Kalyana Srinivasam. The centerpiece of the evening was the "alyana Srinivasam" production, a profound depiction of the history of Lord Srinivasa and His divine presence on the sacred Tirumala Hills. The narrative was brought to life by the exceptional performances of the dancers, ranging from the portrayal of baby Krishna to Padmavati by Dr. Pranamya Suri to Lakshmi by Smt Srilatha Suri herself, whose expressions and emotional depth transported the audience into the heart of the story. The devotion and technical prowess of the dancers elevated the production, showcasing the heights of Kuchipudi dance.
The audience have had a mesmerizing feeling as if they are watching the real celestial wedding of Lord Srinivasa with Goddess Padmavathi! The lighting, fog affects, and stage props have brought such a great impact! Each artist, all are junior, senior students and Alumni of Natyanjali Dance school, had demonstrated their artistic skill- Samhitha Bandaru as Lord Vishnu and then as Lord Srinivasa.
Lord Brahma and Goddess Sarawasthi were played by Sanjana Putta and Shruthi Potturi.
Followed by Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi - Gouri Nukala and Sriragini Ghantasala.
Brhughu Maharishi, Narada and all roles were played by current students and alumni of Srilatha Suri’s Natyanjali Kuchipudi dance school.
The event was a collaborative effort with Echoes of India 501(c)(3) and Vishnu Global 501(c)(3), highlighting its cultural and communal importance. Echoes of India offers solutions that benefit individuals and the community at large. Vishnu Global is an organization whose primary mission is to revitalize Sri Vaishnava temples globally with a focus on Divya Desams along with helping the surrounding communities and promoting cultural events that convey the principles of Sri Vaishnavsim including equality and inclusivity.
The evening concluded with a powerful recitation of the "Srinivasa Gadyam"" by Sriman Maruganti Yugandaracharya Swami and his son Devanath, offering insights into Lord Venkateswara, His history, and the Tirumala Hills. This recitation, significant for its performance during the Tiruppavada seva at Tirumala, added a sacred end to the night, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
The attached document also has some additional details about Kalyana Srinivasam.
Honorable Chief Minister Sri Anumula Revanth Reddy Garu and Center Cultural Minister, Kishan Reddy Garu have sent their proclamations, appreciating the promotion of Arts and culture by Smt Srilatha Suri, Founder Director Natyanjali Kuchipudi 25th years of service to the community.
Celebrity Actress, Archana - Veda had sent a video clip welcoming the 25th year anniversary celebrations of Srilatha Suri’s Natyanjali Kuchipudi dance school.
