Master of Kuchipudi turns 75
Kuchipudi exponent, Vempati Chinna Satyam — Pic. by C. V. Subrahmanyam
SEVENTY FIVE years ago, on this day, in a small village in Andhra Pradesh, history was created. Little did anyone know at the time that on this day a legend was born who would transform the world and create an impact on the lives of thousands. Several centuries ago, the art of Kuchipudi dance was created by legends in their own time who developed the art as means of propagating ritual, tradition and folklore.
The boundaries of this art were originally confined to men alone who would enact the roles of both the genders. Through the ages, at least in India, Kuchipudi became popularised as one of many national art forms whose limitations were still restricted by regional trends. As a result, the art form's popularity was limited in its outreach across India because of India's vast and disparate regional influences. It would ultimately be the vision of one man, who recognised the innate potential of the art and the need to expand its horizons that Kuchipudi in the last few decades has risen to the ranks of other international dance repertoires.
By not only revolutionising the art through the active involvement of women but also exposing international audiences to the charm of the dance form, Kuchipudi has been appreciated globally now.
The ability of one man to have such dramatic impact on the world in a short period of time is a testament to his gift. The most talented and aspiring dancers across continents have trained under him and risen to fame. Ultimately, his tenacity and perseverance won him the much deserved acclaim.
He will be best known for his creative genius in combining rhythm and dance in a fashion that captivates the viewer. His choreography will remain in a trademark that is readily apparent to all and will be a lasting imprint in the minds of dancers for many generations.
This man of vision, creativity and wisdom is none other than Guru Vempati Chinna Satyam.
Today, we honour him as he turns 75 and welcome the onset of new a generation of talent, like his son Ravi, who will continue to broaden the horizons of this great art and treasure of India to a new level.
We salute the contributions of the great Kuchipudi Master and celebrate not only his glorious 75 years of life but also the life he has given to the art.
(Washington DC)
SREEDHAR POTARAZU
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