Krishna’s Ensemble: Kuchipudi and Carnatic Music Ballet

By Ranjani Sivakumar, Avani Reddy Visavaram, Abha Natkode

About the event:

The Sri Krishna Ballet is a classical dance production that showcases the life and adventures of Lord Krishna, a beloved and revered deity in Hindu mythology. This ballet combines elements of the classical Indian dance style Kuchipudi, along with Carnatic music, storytelling, and elaborate costumes.

The ballet typically depicts various significant events from Krishna's life, including his childhood as a mischievous yet divine cowherd in Vrindavan, his heroic acts as a prince in Mathura, and his ultimate role as a teacher and guide in the epic battle of Mahabharata. The story of Krishna, known as the Bhagavad Gita, is often emphasised and beautifully brought to life through the expressive movements, intricate footwork, and graceful gestures of the dancers.

The ballet also involves vibrant choreography, breathtaking sets, and captivating stage lighting. The dancers skilfully portray the different characters from the Krishna story, including his companions, Radha and the Gopis, as well as various demons and celestial beings. The music that accompanies the ballet usually features classical Indian instruments such as tabla, sitar, flute, and veena, enhancing the overall aesthetic and spiritual experience for the audience.

Overall, the Sri Krishna Ballet is a mesmerizing spectacle that not only showcases the rich cultural heritage of India but also conveys profound spiritual teachings and embodies devotion to a deity who is regarded as the incarnation of love, wisdom, and divine playfulness. It is a visual and auditory treat for both fans of classical dance and those interested in exploring the mythology and philosophy behind Lord Krishna's life.

Ranjani Sivakumar

An a grade (All India Radio) classical musician under the Gurus Smt Seeta Narayanan, Sri NS Srinivasan, Sri Chetalapatiz Balu, and Isai Peroli Smt Pantula Rama. She won many awards from All India Radio, Music Academy, Malayalee Club Chennai, A.S Panchapakesa Iyer Trust, Indian Fine Arts Society, and Saraswati Vaggeyakara Trust. She performed on various stages of national and international prominence. She is also a playback singer in many Telugu movies. 

Avani Reddy Visavaram

Avani is a 10-year-old budding Kuchipudi dancer practising since the age of four. She started her Kuchipudi training under the direction of her guru Smt Latha Manzoosha from Arunodhya Kala Samithi, and Smt Yamini Reddy from Natya Tarangani. Her bright eyes expressive face, and graceful moments at a young age, she developed a lasting flame of passion for mastering the art as a result of her perseverance. She won many accolades. Winner in ICMDA competition, runners up in Great India Festival 2021 runners up in World Telugu Cultural Fest 2020. She performed on many stages. 

Abha Naktode

Abha is a Kuchipudi Guru and runs Aryan Arts Academy. She performed on many stages and trained hundreds of Kuchipudi dancers. She has completed a master's in Kuchipudi from Potti Sriramulu Telugu University. She is a versatile artist who is into theatre, and also the direction of short films.