kalakshetra

Kuchipudi kalakshetra is a dream come true of PadmaBhushan Dr. Vempati Chinna Satyam. It is located in the Visakha Valley, facing the shores of Bay of Bengal. Peaceful and away from the city life, it is a perfect location for art lovers. Kalakshetra was formally inaugarated in 1987. The first batch of students of Kalakshetra performed, together with the seniors from the main school- The Kuchipudi Art Academy, Madras. From then on Kalakshetra can boast of successful students who have peformed widely throughout India and abroad. Many have accompanied Dr. Vempati in his tours around the world. Many of the students have started their own schools sucessfully. Many of us are recipents of the prestigious scholarships given by the human Resources Development, Govt. Of India. Many have even got their Diplomas and Certificates in Dance, thus able to pursue a carrer in this direction.
Students get to learn music and sanskrit, as the knowledge of these allied arts makes a more confident dancer. All these are taught for free in true Gurukulam style.

Born in Kuchipudi, the birth place of this art form, Sri Hari Rama Murthy is one of the gifted disciples of the Legend- PadmaBhushan Dr. Vempati Chinna Satyam,
He underwent training in Kuchipudi Art Academy, Madras. Sri Hari peformed in all the major Dance Ballet festivals in India and all over the world.He performed in the festivals of India held at Russia, 1987, and in Germany in 1992. He toured throughout Europe.In Netherlands, he performed at the first World Music Festival. He has accompanied Dr. Satyam in every tour, whether in India or abroad.
    He has played major roles in Master's ballet which have won countless accolades throughout India, USA, Canada and Europe.Simple hardworking and a man of composure, Sri Hari is a source of inspiration. He constantly endeavours to bring out the best in his students. Dedication and involvement are his key attributes which he passes on to the students of Kalakshetra.
    He is assisted in the penance to spread this art form by Smt. Bhanu Rama murthy and Sri Surya kanth Lal. Bhanu, a senior student of Kalakshetra, takes up classes for the beginners and also helps run the school in Sri Hari's absence. She instills confidence and makes the student do their best.
   Sri Lal is the mridangam master (percussionist)at Kalakshetra. He helps the students learn the taalas and jathis as he plays the mridangam through every class everyday. He plays mridangam for all the Art Academy programs as well. He has successfuly toured throughout the world with Dr. Satyam.
I am blessed to be a part of this wonderful family. I hope to be a part of this institution even in my future births .