Mar 09 2025 to Mar 09 2025 6 p.m.

Where

Bangalore International Centre

7 4th Main Rd, Stage 2, Domlur 560071

Event Description

When Rukmini Devi Arundale founded Kalakshetra in 1936, she did not intend to create a new style of Bharatnatyam. Yet, the Kalakshetra bani emerged—a new approach that distinguished itself from the traditional ‘sadir’ style. Rukmini Devi’s choreography blended classical purity with innovative storytelling, giving rise to a new school of Bharatanatyam that balanced tradition with modern sensibilities.

Over two decades ago, Kalakshetra alumna Swagata Sen Pillai began curating Smriti Pravah in memory of Rukmini Devi, celebrating her legacy on her birth anniversary and bringing together Kalakshetra students worldwide to honor their guru. After Swagata’s untimely passing due to COVID, her friends and seniors from Kalakshetra, Tripti Bhupen and Archita Mehta, have continued this tradition.

In 2025, on Rukmini Devi’s 121st anniversary, Archita Mehta’s NrityaSadhana Centre for Bharatanatyam and Indian Folk Dances, and Tripti Bhupen’s Samarpan School of Performing Arts take a journey into her creative world, where she preserved Bharatanatyam’s traditions while innovating within its structure.

The performance will be in two parts: the first will highlight pieces from the margam choreographed by Rukmini Devi’s direct disciples, while the second will explore her timeless dance dramas.

This year’s performers include Kalakshetra alumni Archita Mehta, Tripti Bhupen, Gayatri Krishnaveni Lakshmanan, Vasundhara Thomas, Priyashri Rao, Lasya Priya R, and Nrithika B Natesh.