Kalakshetra, the cultural institute for Bharatanatyam, which completes its 75th anniversary, has a treat for classical dance lovers to relive the legacy of Bharatanatyam and other dance forms

Established in 1935 by Rukmini Devi Arundale, Kalakshetra over the years has emerged as one of the most prominent institutes for Bharatanatyam. Such that in the world of classical dance, it is a matter of immense pride if one carries the Kalakshetra alumnus tag.


Bharatanatyam performance by students of Kalakshetra

In 1994, the Indian Parliament recognised this legendary institute as an institute of national importance.
As part of its 75th year celebrations, Kalakshetra has organised a three-day festival at the NCPA, with the intent to give people a glimpse into the unique legacy that this institution represents. The Guide gives you a sneak peek of what to expect.

Rukmini Devi Arundale:u00a0The legendu00a0lives on Rukmini Devi Arundale (1904-86) was one of the pioneers of Bharatanatyam who played an important role in shaping this dance form to its current standing. From being a temple dance of the Devadasis, Rukmini Devi brought it to the popular stage. She raised its status to that of a pure art form. Devi Arundale, an upper-caste Indian woman, gave her first public performance of Bharatanatyam in 1935 at the Diamond Jubilee Convention of the Theosophical Society, Chennai. In 1936, she established Kalakshetra, an academy of music and dance in Chennai. She is still regarded as one of the foremost proponents of traditional arts and crafts and one of the most important revivalists of classical dance to emerge from India.

August 25
Under the Banyan Tree ufffd 75 years of Kalakshetra
The first day of the festival will take the audience through Kalakshetra's journey till date. Talks, discussions and video clips will help people understand the nuances and aesthetics of compositions that emerged from Kalakshetra. Excerpts from dance dramas and other choreographies will present the audience with the opportunity to understand the nitty-gritty and nuances of the performances as also the beauty and aesthetics behind these choreographies and will also take a look at Kalakshetra's vision ahead.
Time: 7 pm onwards; AT Experimental Theatre, NCPA; TICKETS Rs 300, Rs 200