Ravindra Bharati, Major News 15: The 4th edition of 'Kalopasana 2026', organized by Nruthya Deekshalaya under the guidance of dance guru Lakshmi Shankar, was held on Saturday evening at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan. Organized in view of Independence Day, the festival aimed to bring the Kuchipudi tradition closer to the younger generation while providing a platform for young artists belonging to various guru traditions.
Renowned Kuchipudi exponent and Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar awardee Yamini Reddy attended the event as the chief guest, while prominent Carnatic vocalist and Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar awardee Lahari Kolachela participated as the esteemed guest. They inaugurated the dance performances by lighting the ceremonial lamp. This year, five young female artists mesmerized the audience with their solo performances and were honored with the 'Natya Vikas Award'.
Artists Sravani Mudiraj, Sayoji Ashrita, Ruthvika Nalamalapu, Lakshmi Raghunath, and Shruti Samanvi showcased their talent through diverse items such as 'Ananda Tandavam', 'Parulanna Maata', 'Lakshmi Pravesam', 'Prahlada Pattabhishekam Shabdam', 'Alokaye Sri Balakrishnam Tarangam', 'Mahadeva Shiva Shambho', 'Chakkani Talliki', 'Bhama Pravesha Daruvu', and 'Dhanashri Tillana'.
The grand finale, where all five artists jointly performed 'Bharata Samrajya Sukhi', stood out as a special attraction. Set in Raag Desh, this group performance reflected patriotism, national unity, Indian culture, and the grandeur of Kuchipudi. The coming together of five artists from different guru traditions on a single stage embodied the Indian spirit of "unity in diversity" through dance. The program concluded grandly amidst thunderous applause from the audience.
Providing a platform for young artists, honoring guru traditions, and inspiring future generations of Kuchipudi, Kalopasana 2026 marked yet another successful chapter.
