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MANILA, Philippines – For most of us, what comes to mind when we think of India is “Bollywood” — the movies, the songs, the dances. But did you know that there are several other classical and folk dance forms that bring about the true essence of Indian culture?
One of the oldest and most popular South Indian classical dance form is Bharata Natyam, known for its grace, purity, tenderness, and sculpturesque poses. It is a dance form that is deeply grounded in devotion and is expected to take its audience through a spiritual journey as the dancers display a variety of dance numbers that integrate the mind, body, and soul.
Imagine experiencing this rich art form without having to travel miles away. Coming soon to the Philippines is a dance production performed by about 26 students of Ms. Shanti Sreedhar.
About the teacher
Shanti Sreedhar is an award winning performer, teacher, and choreographer. She started training in Bharata Natyam when she was 4 years old. Ms Sreedhar has received numerous awards for her performances, including recognition as a Category A dancer by the National Broadcast (Doordarshan) of India. She is also trained in another classical dance style, Kuchupudi, and is a specialist in Nattuvangam (synchronization of beats and steps).
Since 1996, Ms Sreedhar has been teaching and choreographing Indian classical and folk dance in the Philippines. She has been associated with the UP College of Music, working with dance and ethnomusicology majors.
Among the shows she has directed and choreographed are Natyanjali (part of the celebration of the 86th anniversary of the UP College of Music); Shanti Mantras (tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and Jose Rizal for the India Week celebrated at the Cultural Center of the Philippines); Chants of Peace (a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi for the closing program of the Pankha Exhibition, a joint venture of the National Museum and the Embassy of India.)
Ms Sreedhar also represented India as artist and workshop facilitator in PETA’s Changing She Images. She headed the first CCP summer workshop on Bharata Natyam called Arpana, a successful joint venture of the Indian Embassy and CCP.
“Sadhana — A Spiritual Practice,” is her latest brain child. – Rappler.com
‘Sadhana — A Spiritual Practice’ will be an evening of Indian classical, contemporary, and folk dances. It will be held at the CAP Theatre in Makati on April 20 from 5pm to 6pm. For tickets, contact Shanti Sreedhar at 0917-4095366.
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