Yamini Saripalli is a disciple of the late gurus Dr.Vempati Chinna Satyam and his son, Sri Vempati Ravi Shankar. Yamini trained for over two decades under her gurus and the esteemed faculty at the Kuchipudi Art Academy – Chennai.  Yamini has performed with Dr. Vempati’s troupe throughout the United States and India.

As a solo artist, Yamini has performed at various esteemed venues throughout the United States, India, Mexico, Canada and the United Kingdom in addition to performing in the Chennai Dance and Music Season for many years.

Yamini received training in Carnatic vocal music under the late guru Sri Bhagavatula Seetharama Sarma, Kalapeetham, Chennai, India. She passionately and relentlessly pursues excellence and the highest of standards in her art form.

Website: WWW.YAMINISARIPALLI.COM 

Vinayaka Kavithvam : This classic composition was composed by Mysore Venkatalakshmamma and is in praise of Lord Ganesha. It is set in Raga Hamsadhwani and in Adi talam.

Ninda Stuthi : Itti pannulu Chetura is a Ninda Stuthi set in Ragam Gowla and Adi Talam, wherein the author Sarangapani is trying to heckle his beloved Venugopala in a lovable manner. The Nayika of this Ninda stuthi complains to Krishna regarding his misconduct. This abhinaya piece explores and conveys a huge range of emotions, ensuring that the audience is thoroughly entertained

Was started by Leenu V. Thampy in Chennai in 2018,  and expanded to Ottawa , CA in 2022! Shreshta aims to preserve and promote the rich heritage of Bharatanatyam and other classical indian dance forms. The school emphasizes traditional values while embracing creative expressions, nurturing both beginners and seasoned dancers.
Under Leenu’s guidance, Shreshta continues to inspire students to achieve excellence in classical dance while preserving its traditional roots. Now established in Ottawa, the school aims to foster a vibrant community of classical dance enthusiasts.

Our talented young dancers from Shreshta will present a graceful performance to the classic song ‘Chinna Kannan Enna Sonna.’ This beautiful composition set in Desh Raga and Adhi Thala – brings to life the story of Lord little Krishna, and through intricate footwork, expressive abhinaya (expressions), and classical movements, the children will capture the essence of devotion and beauty that the song embodies!!

Participants name:
1. Dharshika Machineni

2. Allie Srikaran

3. Parvathi Jayadev

4. Shivani R Sridhar

5. Edrea Ann Kurian

6. Amelia Sara Eldho

7. Haanvika Dinesh Kumar

8. Thanvi Nair

9. Naveena Stephen

This wonderful musical performance will feature a collection of well-known melodies in different languages celebrating spring.

Dharmaraj is an exceptionally talented vocalist who imbibes each musical piece with the emotions and colors of the music, bringing each piece to life. He is working for Synopsys as a chip design engineer. Has been a professional singer for over a decade now, performed in more than 200 events both in Canada and India. He has been a play back singer for a few devotional albums in India.

Manas is a passionate singer who has learnt Carnatic music during his childhood days and has pursued it ever since as something more than a hobby. He has performed in many community events and other gatherings in multiple Geographies around the world and hopes to continue serving the community to his best efforts.

The performance will celebrate the eternal love of Radha and Krishna reflected in the beauty, joy and colours of the spring season. It will showcase storytelling in kathak, through facial expressions and hand gestures, as well as pure dance through beautiful spins, rythmic pieces and fast footwork that are the hallmarks of the dance form. The music for the performance is a custom piece developed by guru and Kathak exponent Sudeshna Maulik along with musicians in India on raag basant to celebrate the arrival of spring.

A performance of Odissi customarily begins with an invocation dance known as the Mangala-Charan. It has four parts to it.

The first one is called the “Mancha Pravesh” where the dancers enter the stage.

The second one is called “Bhumi Pranam” meaning paying respect to The Earth. In Hindu religion Earth is respected as a mother as she provides us food, shelter. The dancers pay respect to Mother Earth and take permission to dance by stumping on her.
In the third stage the dancer pays obeisance to a god or goddess of the Hindu pantheon.

In the fourth stage the dancer pays salutations to the audience.

The students of Odissi Nrutyayana Shulini and Shreya Padhy are going to present MangalaCharan “Krushna Tandav”- an invocation to Lord Krushna.

A Kathak performance that captures the dramatic intensity of thunder, lightning, and rain through rhythmic footwork and expressive storytelling. The echoes of Malhar resonate, portraying nature’s raw energy and beauty, followed by a mesmerizing tarana that concludes the performance with grace and vibrant rhythm.

Known for their vibrant energy and captivating performances, Malang and Kikli brings the rich traditions of punjab to life with their electrifying gidha. With a tagline ‘celebrating diversity through dance’, they blend culture, rhythm, and unity in every step,leaving audiences mesmerized.

AaradhyaSwain is 9 years 4th grade student.  She is learning Odissi dance for 3 years. She has attended a stage performance in some events like ISCON Jagannath Rath Yatra, Ganesh Chaturthi, Hindu Heritage Month event and also She was invited by the Odia Society of Canada in Toronto for a stage performance

TGIF has collaborated with regional associations/ state representatives from East, West, South, and North, who have arranged heritage, culture, and tourism exhibits. The Great India Festival is a platform that celebrates the diversity of India and promotes art, literature, cultural heritage, and tourism.

The four days Mahabharatotsav event is scheduled to take place from August 10 th 2023 to August 13th, 2023. It will be a great opportunity for you and your association/organization to visit our heritage pavilion, which will showcase some of the state’s unique cultures and traditions to a diverse audience.

Participating associations are:

• Gujarati Cultural Association (GCA);
• The Ottawa Odiyas;
• Malayali Association;
• Himachali Pravasi Global Association,
• Hariyanvi Association of North America,
• Ottawa Tamil Sangam,
• Rajasthanis in Ottawa

From 7 states of India

1 HIMACHAL PRADESH
2 HARYANA HANA
3 GUJARAT GCA 4RAJASTHAN
5 ODISSA
6 TAMILNADU
7 KERALA

Welcoming you all to make this event a grand success.

Maitri Nuthalapati kuchipudi dancer, learnt the art of kuchipudi from guru Pusapati Gnaneshwara Rao Garu he is a scholar and a student of Dr.Vempati Chinna Satyam. My theme of dance is Nritta abhinayam.

Ms. Richa Pandey has been learning dance since a young age. She has been a part of various dance programs and has learned kathak in her childhood along with zumba, hip hop and contemporary dance.

In this performance by the performance group of Gharana Arts, you will see their many years of rigorous training in footwork, hand gestures, facial expressions, and intricate rhythmic patterns. The dancers immerse themselves in countless hours of practice, perfecting their technique and honing their ability to effortlessly synchronize their movements with the music. The choreography is by Vidushi Kasturi Mishra, with original compositions and arrangement by Guru Ravi Singh

1. Amogh Nagaraja (11 yrs)
2.  Samarth Bhandiwad (12 yrs)
3. Kiran Banari Ganesh
4. Kishore Ramiyengar
5. Mithun Bhandiwad
6. Sreeranga Nagaraja
7. Kishan Belur
8. Kushalappa Ajjamada

1.  Yashvitha Yelena Chodavarapu (12 yrs)
2.  Kavana Bellamane
3. Puskara Ajjampur
4.  Ranjitha Kalakannanavar
5.  Supriya Chakravarthi Srihari
6.  Aruna Mangalwedhe
7.  Renuka Channagiri
8.  Prasanthi Akilla
9.  Deeksha Kantharaju
10. Veena Padmanabha
11. Meena Ajjamada

Rajesh Chenthy, an emerging young talent, is an eminent performing artist. He holds a Master’s in Bharathanatyam performing arts from the world renowned Kalakshetra Foundation College of Fine Arts located in Chennai, India. Having been exposed to the vast field of fine arts from a young age, he chose to pursue continuous and strenuous training for many years. He has also demonstrated proficiency in other Indian Classical dance styles and multiple folk dance forms. He has received many prestigious awards including Natya Kala Jothi, Natya Mayuri, Bhaasarawathi award, and the Best Choreographer award from the Kalakshetra Foundation, Chennai.

Presently, Rajesh is based in Montreal, Canada where he contributes to the community as a performing artist. He travels all over the world and has performed numerous dance productions in collaboration with various acclaimed artists from around the world. He was the Director of the Bharathiya Sangeetha Sangham (BSS) and is the founder of Kshetram Fine Arts, Montreal. In addition to teaching, he actively conducts workshops. Kshetram Fine Arts School of Dance in Montreal presents “MISRA MARGA “. Witness the roots of the classical art form, which is the complete collaboration of Indian traditional classical folk dance and classical Bharathanatyam. Here the dancers will be showcasing Bharathanatyam from Tamilnadu and folk dances from Tamil Nadu and Sowrashtra.

Ardhanareeshwara is the deity that is depicted as half Goddess Parvathi and half Lord Shiva. Parvathi, the female principle, represents creation. Shiva, the male principle, represents destruction (or the opportunity for regeneration). 

Both are equally integral in maintaining balance and harmony in the universe and in ourselves. One cannot exist without the other. It is in this merger of opposites, of conflicting ways of being, that we find the true rhythm of life. 

Drawn by a real passion for dance, Dr. Radha Jetty evolves as a dancer, instructor, choreographer and community artiste. She owes her strong foundation to her guru ofover 25 years, Smt. Vasantha Krishnan and Kalakshetra masters in Chennai, India.  While steeped in tradition andever-present in her global context, Dr. Radha’s work is constantly influenced by herlife experiences through her traditional and contemporary dance endeavours. Using her choreographies as a voice for social change, she bringsawareness to women’s rights in Samsaara: Rebirth of a Woman and child soldiersin A Mother’s Plea. 

Dr. Radha’s passion pervades her lifework as a pediatrician. As a pediatrician at CHEO, a researcher at the CHEO research institute, associate professor at the University of Ottawa, medical advisor for Indigeous services at the government of canada, she strives to improve the health of all children with a focus on Indigenous children in Canada and globally. As Nunavut’s firstfulltime pediatrician, she called the Canadian Arctic home for many years.  She lobbies for Indigenous children’s rights with Indigenous organizations at provincial, national and internationally at the Inter-American human rights commission. She strives to advocate for health equity among Indigenous children at home in Ottawa, throughout Canada and globally. Dr. Radha was recognized as a CBC Trailblazer in 2020 for the positive impact of her work.

Her truest passion is now being a mother to her daughter, Jaya.

In this performance by Tabla Tarang, you will see their many years of rigorous training in Taal, musical expression, and clarity of sounds while producing intricate rhythmic patterns. The percussionists immerse themselves in countless hours of practice, perfecting their techniques and honing their ability to effortlessly synchronize mathematically complex rhythm patterns. They will be playing traditional compositions from the Banaras Gharana with an arrangement by Guru Ravi S. K. Singh.

Leela highlights the compassion showered upon the bhaktas by Rama , Krishna and Kalyani in their own ways. It describes the beauty and valor through short story telling in the form of following three items.

Prashanti School of Dance is a dance institution based in Ottawa which was founded by Radhika Pillai with the aim of supporting and promoting the Indian classical dance form of Bharatanatyam. Since Dance is not only an artform but also a yoga that unites the dancer with the divine consciousness with control over the mind, body and emotions, Prashanti School of Dance believes in nurturing every student with individual attention and encouragement. Students of Prashanti School of dance have performed in several cultural festivals and are determined and focused to learn this beautiful dance form with dedication and with the motive
to uphold its beauty and integrity.

Rama Janardhana : Today the first item presented by Prashanti School of Dance is a nottuswaram which is composed by Sri Muthuswamy Dikshithar in the ragam Sankarabharnam and set to Talam Tisra Ekam. This beautiful Disksitar Kriti praises Lord Rama as the slayer of the demon Ravana, as the brother of Lakshmana , The just and compassionate King of Ayodhya and the consort of Sita. This item will be presented by Avni Varun, Joshitha Jayaram, Aishani Aitha, Anwitha Mudunuri, Gautham Samineni, Kalpana Jayaprakash and Prajna Suvarna.

Adidano Ranga : The next item is Adidano Ranga composed by Shri Purandara Dasar in Arabhi Ragam set to Adi Talam. This composition describes the beauty and elegance of Lord Krishna’s dance on the hood of the serpent Kaliya on the banks of the river Yamuna and how the Lords and even the Apsaras were showering their praise and flowers on Krishna as he saved the people of Gokul. This item will be presented by Deetchana Sai Kanan, Eshanika Jaladanki, Harshita Sharma, Keerthi Teki, Sreeya Dandey, Vaishnavi Goluguri and Kaira.

Varaveena : The last item performed by the students of Prashanti School of Dance is Varaveena which is in praise of the Goddess Lakshmi who bestows favorable boons on her devotees and is always compassionate, forgiving and loving toward her children. Her beauty and features are praised by Appayya Deekshitar in this composition that is in Mohanam Ragam and is set to Rupaka Talam which will be performed by Eva Eliz Meledam, Srinidhi Narayanan, Vagisha Kilaru, Vishwaa Bhavsar and Lalithya Chandrashekhar.

Both Deeksha and Maitri Arya began their trysts with Bharatanatyam at the young ages of six years at the Prabhath Academy for Music and Performing Arts under chief choreographer and instructor Guru Smt. Nirmala Madhava. The sisters continued their Bharatanatyam classes under the tutelage of Guru Kalamandalam Smt. Usha Datar at the Datar Insitute of Fine Arts. They completed their junior and senior level exams in the art form, conducted by the Karnataka State Education Board, as well as their Bharatanatyam Arangetrams, with the guidance of Guru Sri Karthik Datar. In addition, they have given over 100 dance performances and performed in multiple cultural events across India, and now in Canada. Having relocated to two different cities to pursue their higher education, the sisters began conceptualizing, choreographing, and producing virtual dance videos, laying emphasis to perfecting coordination to simulate an in-person performance. Both Deeksha and Maitri are also training in Mohiniattam under Guru Smt. Dhanya Santhosh since 2013 and have performed the dance form at multiple festivals. The sisters regularly volunteer for social causes alongside pursuing professional careers and strive to maintain a perfect balance between all these interests.

Performance at TGIF, Aug 11th, 2023:
“Ananda Natanam”

Deeksha and Maitri Arya will perform a Pushpanjali, a traditional show-opening Bharatanatyam item. They will follow this with a song in praise of Lord Ganesha: Ananda Narthana Ganapathi, describing the destroyer of all obstacles, Lord Ganesha dances as he is filled with happiness.

 Kauthuvam is a traditional dance piece in  Bharatanatyam. Kauthuvam incorporates elements of nritta (pure dance) and abhinaya (expressional dance). It consists of rhythmic footwork, intricate adavus (basic steps), and gestures, along with accompanying lyrics and music. The lyrics are usually in Tamil or Telugu and are set to a specific rhythmic pattern or tala. It consists of rhythmic footwork, intricate adavus (basic steps), and gestures, along with accompanying lyrics and music. The lyrics are usually in Tamil or Telugu and are set to a specific rhythmic pattern or tala.

Kum. Nitya & Kum. Niyati Thondapu have been learning Bharatanatyam in the “Pandanallur Pani” style from a young age with the guidance of their guru Jini Mayuri who taught them love, discipline, and dedication towards dance and this art form.

A Bengali fusion dance based on the combination of two melodious songs which are called Rabindrasangeet as those are written and composed by the famous poet and Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore. While both of the songs portrays the beauty of rain, the second song is called “Bhanusingher Padabali” which is the poetical representation of divinity and love between Radha and Krishna

Kum. Tanna Samanta is a trained Indian classical dancer and she has been trained with other local Bengali dance forms as well since her early childhood. She has  learned Bharatnatyam  from Srimati. Puspa Chatterjee, a renowned dancer and disciple of Guru Shri Khagendranath Barman in Kolkata and has performed in various cultural programs henceforth in India, USA and in Canada. By profession she is a Data Analyst and works and resides in Ottawa.

Indrani Choudhury from Kolkata, India, started dancing from the age of 7. Trained in Kathak dance of Lucknow gharana, she holds Sangeet Prabhakar certificate (6 yrs. degree course) in Kathak from Prayag Sangeet Samiti, India.

In the last 30 years she has performed in and choreographed numerous dance shows, taken summer classes, worked as dance teacher in a secondary school and won many accolades in India, UK, the Middle East and now in Canada.

In 2016, she founded Nrityashala Dance School in Ottawa The students at her school fall in the age group of 6 to 60, they are trained in Indian Classical dances like Kathak and Manipuri and various forms of Eastern and North Eastern India folk dance. Her intention behind setting up her own school is not only to teach dance but also to spread the rich cultural heritage of India. To her, dance forms an important part in the physical and spiritual well-being of an individual.

She believes in- “Live, love, dance and celebrate life’’!

This performance is from Sai Bhagya Dance Academy choreographed by 

Mrs. Lawanya Mayil. Lawanya is a Bharathanatyam artist and a teacher in the Ottawa region and she teaches in the Findlay Creek area. 

She has been teaching for the past 7 years and has been learning and practicing this art form since the age of 4. She completed her arangetram in 2016 and was a company dancer of many studios in Mississauga. She enjoys teaching Bharathanatyam to all age groups and wishes to spread her knowledge on this. 

The students of Sai Bhagya Dance Academy will be presenting the popular DhanashreeThillana. This is a fast and rhythmic dance piece with a modern twist. The dancers who are presenting this piece are: 

Pandit Satyaki Dutta is a Sarod artist representing the Sarod Gharanas (schools) of Shahjahanpur. Sarod is a North Indian Classical Instrument originating from the lute family with its immediate predecessor in the Rabab from Afghanistan. It is a fretless melodic instrument with eight main strings and fifteen additional sympathetic strings. He had the privilege to learn from the legendary Sarod maestro of Senia-Shahjahanpur Gharana Padmabhushan Pandit Buddhadev DasGupta and also took his initial lessons from Sri Panab Naha. Subsequently, he continued his musical pursuit under Sitar virtuoso Pandit Sugato Nag and Ustad Irfan Muhammad Khan, the doyen of Lucknow-Shahjahanpur Gharana. Satyaki holds a PhD degree in Mathematics and resides in Westchester County in New York. He is a member of Westchester Musicians’ Guild and a recipient of the ArtsAlive 2021 Artists’ Grant awarded by ArtsWestchester and 2023 NYSCA Support for Artists Grant.

Tabla – Guru Ravi S. K. Singh

Guru Ravi S. K. Singh, hailing from the vibrant cultural tapestry of Trinidad and Tobago, embodies a harmonious blend of diverse musical influences, infusing him with a unique perspective.

His tabla voyage commenced under the tutelage of Smt. Hem Mathur at the India School of Dance Music and Theatre in Winnipeg, Canada. In 2003, Ravi Ji’s journey led him to India as he was honored with the Senior Arts Fellowship from the Shastri-Indo Canadian Institute. Under the revered guidance of tabla maestro Pandit Kumar Bose, Ravi Ji delved into intensive traditional training.

Ravi Ji’s global musical explorations have harmoniously resonated, sharing stages with accomplished artists like sarod maestro Pt. Ranajit Sengupta, Kathak legend Pt. Bachanlal Mishra, and Sangeet Natak Awardees Pt. Ramesh Mishra and Pt. Satish Vyas in Canada and India.

In every tabla stroke, Ravi Ji’s positivity and dedication weave a musical narrative that transcends boundaries, celebrating the unity of cultures through the enchanting language of music.

Pragjyoti Sangha is a pioneer cultural and social society of Assam and is an initiative of artist who loves the cultural value of the various ethnic communities of Assam and aims in exploring and redefining the richness of various traditional dances which are in the way of extinct through various innovative programmes. Established in Chandmari, Milanpur in the year 2000 and registered under the society act vide registration no. KAM 240/173 of 2003-04.

Pragjyoti Sangha feels pride in introducing the organisation as it consist of talented artist who are not only great performers but also well acknowledged trainers. Having such talented artist the organisation has also opened a cultural institute in the name of “PRAGJYOTI CULTURAL ACADEMY” in the year 2007 where the students are given systematic training in Assamese classical dance form “Satriya Nritya” , folk dances of Assam and playing the traditional instruments by well experienced and qualified persons.

In the past years Pragjyoti Sangha has organised many workshops on folk dances and folk instruments. It has also been celebrating the annual function of the Pragjyoti Cultural academy on every alternate years by organising various inter state competetions on art and music which encourages the new generation. Pragjyoti Sangha organises felicitation ceremony of young students who come up with bright results and also well known artist,writers,social workers etc. who devoted their entire life to work.

Above all, the organisation has an ICCR empanelled cultural group of very talented  artist who through their performances earned great appreciation from the learned audiences. It has also joined several competetions and obtained top positions in some of the folk and classical events. Recently the organisation has attempted a new stage act on some of the folk dances of Assam named “Hompritir Enajori “, a one go performance of about 45 minutes showing unity in diversity and which has been highly appreciated .

Name of the artistes :-

Female :-

1. Shrutimala Medhi
2. Dipanjali Garo
3. Kakali Bezbarua
4. Nayantara Bordoloi
5. Bhagyashree Barman

Male :-

1. Mithuraj Bora
2. Corno Borah
3. Manas Rajbongshi 

Sri Prasanna,

Sri Prasanna, known to many fans as Guitar Prasanna, is one of the most renowned and internationally acclaimed artists to have emerged from the Indian Subcontinent. He is the pioneer in performing traditional Indian Classical Carnatic music on a modern electric guitar and is known worldwide for that innovation. Prasanna studied Carnatic music with his Gurus Vocalist Tiruvarur S. Balasubramaniam and Violin Maestro A. Kanyakumari, in the traditional Guru- Shishya system of one-on-one learning. He received a Lifetime Achievement Award for Carnatic Music by H.H. Shri Jayendra Saraswathi in 2003.  Most recently, in 2021, Prasanna was awarded the Distinguished Alumnus Award from his Alma Mater, the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras. Along with Pandit Ravishankar and A.R. Rahman, Prasanna is the only other Indian composer to have scored the music for an Oscar-winning international film – Megan Mylan’s “Smile Pinki” which won an Academy Award in 2009. 

Prasanna has also composed the music for feature films, such as the National Award and Filmfare Award-winning Tamil blockbuster “Vazhakku Enn 18/9”, among others. Prasanna is featured on Open Magazine’s list of ’50 Most Creative Indians’ and on Spinditty’s list of ‘100 Greatest Indian Classical Musicians’. His music has received rave reviews in the international press such as New York Times, Los Angeles Times, The Guardian, Huffington Post, Sydney Morning Herald, Guitar Player Magazine, Vintage Guitar Magazine, DownBeat, Jazz Times, etc. Prasanna’s composition ‘Falsehood’ is featured in the book ‘Essentials of Jazz-the First 100 years’ by Henry Martin and Keith Waters alongside the works of some of the most influential composers of Jazz History. A.R. Rahman has called him “A living hope for quality music.” A Magna Cum Laude Graduate from the prestigious Berklee College of Music, Prasanna is recognized internationally for his expertise as a guitarist and composer in Jazz, Rock, and Fusion music, performing and recording with multi-Grammy winning artists such as Esperanza Spalding, Victor Wooten, Joe Lovano, and others. He has performed with Indian music Maestros such as Ilaiyaraaja, Pt. Hariprasad Chaurasia, Dr. L. Subramaniam, and others. His collaborations over the last 25 years with A.R. Rahman in numerous movie soundtracks have made him a household name among Indian film music fans. Prasanna’s passion for music education led him in 2009 to establish one of the largest colleges of music in South Asia, the Swarnabhoomi Academy of Music (SAM), with funding and infrastructure support from the Marg Group of Companies. Prasanna served as President of the college for about 5 years before moving on to pursue other avenues. Prasanna is deeply devoted to spreading the gospel of Carnatic music on the guitar and is passionately educating both young children and adults from all over the world to take this beautiful art form further.

Sri Nitin Mitta

Sri Nitin Mitta is a dynamic tabla  soloist and a highly sought after accompanist, who has performed with some of India’s most celebrated musicians such as Pandit Jasraj, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt and Ustad Shahid Parvez to name a few. 

 Nitin’s Gurus’ Pt. G.Satyanarayana and Pt. Arvind Mulgaonkar, are disciples of Ustad Amir Husain Khan, the Legendary doyen of the Farrukhabad Gharana of Tabla. Nitin has also made a mark as a versatile collaborator in other spheres when he joined forces with Grammy nominated pianist Vijay Iyer and electric guitarist R. Prasanna to produce a studio album titled Tirtha.  His tabla playing is featured on the soundtrack of the 20008  Oscar winning short film documentary Smile Pinki. He has recorded two albums with Pianist Utsav Lal. Nitin has also recorded and toured extensively with the two time Juno Award ( Canadian Grammy) winner,  singer, Kiran Ahulwalia. https://nitinmitta.com/

Sri Yayo Serkha

Yayo Serka is a drummer/percussionist, Grammy, and Latin Grammy participant from Tierra del Fuego, Chile.  He began his studies of South American folk music at a young age. From 1990 to 1994 he attended college in Habana, Cuba, graduating with a degree in Music Performance.  In 1994, he returned to Chile where he helped found “Escuelas del Rock”, an organization that continues to bring music education to unprivileged youth. In 1996, he moved to New York where he has been a professional freelance musician. Some of the most prominent artists he has worked with are the Mexican singer Lila Downs, with whom he has collaborated for more than 2 decades, as well as the African icon Angelique Kidjo. 

In his more than 30 years career, Yayo has played in the most prestigious concert halls, and festivals around the world. He has also recorded and shared the stage with artists such as Los Lobos, Bobby Watson, The Chieftains, Gato Barbieri, Mercedes Sosa, Pedro Aznar, Chambao, Susana Baca, Toto La Momposina, Salif Keita, Eva Aiyon, Claudia Acuna, Cindy Lauper, Josh Groban, Andra Day, Philip Glass, EARTHGANG, Ibrahim Maalouf, Youssou Ndour, Manu Dibango, The Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Branford Marsalis, David Byrne, Meshell Ndegeocello, Xiomara Laudal, The Dhol Foundation.

Sarangi – Pandit Pankaj Mishra

Pandit Pankaj Mishra hails from a musical family and was trained from an early age by the renowned Sarangi Player of Banaras Gharana late Pt. Mahesh Prasad Mishra.

Pankaj Ji has performed internationally both as a solo artist and accompanist at several prestigious events in India, Dover Lane Music Conference, ITC Festival, and the Salt Lake Music Festival.

He has also established a school for Indian Classical Music in Germany. He has accompanied eminent vocalists like Vidushi Dirija Devi, Vidushi Purnima Chaudhuri, and famous tabla players late Pt. Shyamal Bose and Pandit Swapan Chaudhury and Kathak exponents like Pandit Birju Maharaj, Pt Rammohan Maharaj, and Pandit Vijay Shankar.  He is a recipient of numerous awards from the State Music Academy West Bengal and the Naad Brahma award by Pundit Damodar Mishra Institute Varanasi & Kolkata.

Tabla – Guru Ravi S. K. Singh

Guru Ravi S. K. Singh, hailing from the vibrant cultural tapestry of Trinidad and Tobago, embodies a harmonious blend of diverse musical influences, infusing him with a unique perspective.

His tabla voyage commenced under the tutelage of Smt. Hem Mathur at the India School of Dance Music and Theatre in Winnipeg, Canada. In 2003, Ravi Ji’s journey led him to India as he was honored with the Senior Arts Fellowship from the Shastri-Indo Canadian Institute. Under the revered guidance of tabla maestro Pandit Kumar Bose, Ravi Ji delved into intensive traditional training.

Ravi Ji’s global musical explorations have harmoniously resonated, sharing stages with accomplished artists like sarod maestro Pt. Ranajit Sengupta, Kathak legend Pt. Bachanlal Mishra, and Sangeet Natak Awardees Pt. Ramesh Mishra and Pt. Satish Vyas in Canada and India.

In every tabla stroke, Ravi Ji’s positivity and dedication weave a musical narrative that transcends boundaries, celebrating the unity of cultures through the enchanting language of music.

USHA GUPTA DANCE ENTOURAGE

Usha Gupta is a Canadian dance icon and is thrilled to present and tour her newest Kathak creation. This is a successful hybrid of both music and dance that create a beautiful bled that is fresh and exciting. This classical form of dance from northern India is revitalized by her ensemble, her most intimate collaborators. A spectacular dance performance, celebrating the power and beauty of diversity.

KHOJ (THE SEARCH)
ANAHITA (OCEAN): The ocean’s currents move endlessly; the ebb and flow of the waves; we too are constantly moving from our beating hearts and breath to our wildest gestures.

THAAT (BLENDING): Thaat is the beginning part of Kathak Dance. After entering on the stage, a Kathak dancer builds a structure of the dance form. In this portion the dancer takes some typical
postures and moves eyes, eyebrows, neck, shoulders, arms, wrists with nagma on a particular Taal in a slower pace. In general, Thaat

BAITHAK (RECITING): Live padhant in the recitation of the words, with the hand rhythm showing the repertoire of Kathak, continuing to search new moments.

PREM KI KHOJ (SEARCH FOR LOVE): Romantic; a rendition of the age old tradition of dancing in a thumri on the eternal theme of attraction and eventual falling in love.

TARANA (RHYTHMIC PATTERNS): One of the most rhythmic, vibrant, and significant items in the Kathak repertoire. It is a type of composition in which certain words or syllables like DIM, TANA,
DERENA, based on Persian and Arabic phonemes, are rendered in different permutations and combinations at a medium or fast pace.

MAAN KI KHOJ (INNER SEARCH FOR SPIRITUALITY): A devotional and spiritual experience with the poetry of Kabir; the dancer searches their inner feelings.

THE SUFI (DIVINE TRUTH): The meaning of Sufism is a selfless is the intention to go towards the Truth by means of human love and devotion. This is called the Tarigat, the spiritual path or way
towards the ultimate. It is another way to reach to the Almighty

Sri. Hardeep Buckshi is a multi-talented Canadian singer and a composer. Although he specializes in singing ghazals and semi-classical, he is also versatile in composing and singing a variety of Indian music. The delivery of ghazal requires a very special expression and Hardeep is able to carry this out effortlessly with his deep and unique voice.  He is a soulful singer in all that he sings and performs, which you will be witness to.  Hardeep has approx. 300 concerts to his credit as a result of his melodious voice.

Hardeep, a Ganda-Bundhit (traditional) disciple of the legendary Mehdi Hassan, an internationally renowned singer of this century.  Hardeep was honored to share the stage and perform with Mehdi Hassan and received his blessings.

Hardeep has been able to keep the traditional ghazal gaayaki (singing) alive in Canada for over 40 years. He has performed in BC, Ontario, Quebec, Alberta and in India.  He has also performed for the NAC, the Jazz festival, Cultures Canada, Arts Council, CBC and countless other events.

Hardeep was inspired by Pandit Kundan Lal and Master Vishambhar Das from whom he received grooming in semi-classical vocal music and completed his music degree from Allahabad University.  Hardeep has been featured on International Radio and Television, including Door Darshan TV (India) and CBC Radio (Canada). Decades of hardwork dedication, devotion and extraordinary original style of singing have made Hardeep Buckshi a living legend in Canada.

Sri. Santosh Shail is an accomplished musician, well known for his memorable performances at multi-cultural events in Ottawa for over 25 years. He served the South Asian community in Ottawa as producer and host of the immensely popular radio program ‘Arohi’ on CHIN 97.9 FM, setting a quality benchmark for ethnic programming in Canada. Santosh is also a media professional with over 30 years’ experience in international broadcast communication. He is President of Shails Communication Inc., a leading media production company in Ottawa, and Executive Director of the Canadian Institute of Mass Communication (CIMC). Despite his many professional engagements, Santosh always finds time for his first love, music. He is an accomplished singer and guitarist and has many original compositions to his credit. He mostly sings popular and light-classical songs in Hindi, but he also loves to sing English oldies.

Sri. Vignesh Chandrasekaran has been playing Tabla and harmonium for the past 23 years. He primarily learned music at Ramakrishna Math & Mission in Chennai under the guidance of Swami Jnanadananda & Sri PS Ramachandran, and subsequently from various other Gurus. He has accompanied for over 200 concerts playing carnatic classical, hindustani classical, bhajans, ghazals and Kathak in India, Canada and USA. He graduated with a Masters from The University of British Columbia and currently resides in Ottawa

Ardhanareeshwara is the deity that is depicted as half Goddess Parvathi and half Lord Shiva. Parvathi, the female principle, represents creation. Shiva, the male principle, represents destruction (or the opportunity for regeneration).   

Both are equally integral in maintaining balance and harmony in the universe and in ourselves. One cannot exist without the other. It is in this merger of opposites, of conflicting ways of being, that we find the true rhythm of life.  

Drawn by a real passion for dance, Dr. Radha Jetty evolves as a dancer, instructor, choreographer and community artiste. She owes her strong foundation to her guru ofover 25 years, Smt. Vasantha Krishnan and Kalakshetra masters in Chennai, India.  While steeped in tradition andever-present in her global context, Dr. Radha’s work is constantly influenced by herlife experiences through her traditional and contemporary dance endeavours. Using her choreographies as a voice for social change, she bringsawareness to women’s rights in Samsaara: Rebirth of a Woman and child soldiersin A Mother’s Plea. 

Dr. Radha’s passion pervades her lifework as a pediatrician. As a pediatrician at CHEO, a researcher at the CHEO research institute, associate professor at the University of Ottawa, medical advisor for Indigeous services at the government of canada, she strives to improve the health of all children with a focus on Indigenous children in Canada and globally. As Nunavut’s firstfulltime pediatrician, she called the Canadian Arctic home for many years.  She lobbies for Indigenous children’s rights with Indigenous organizations at provincial, national and internationally at the Inter-American human rights commission. She strives to advocate for health equity among Indigenous children at home in Ottawa, throughout Canada and globally. Dr. Radha was recognized as a CBC Trailblazer in 2020 for the positive impact of her work.

Sophia Salingaros is a Bharatanatyam artiste residing in New York City, and has studied the art form under Guru Dr. Sreedhara Akkihebbalu since 2007. She has been invited to perform at prestigious venues both nationally and internationally – to name a few: Navatman Drive East, IAAC Erasing Borders, Battery Dance Festival, Jacob’s Pillow, Narada Gana Sabha under the auspices of Kartik Fine Arts,  Vipanchee Arts Festival, World Government Summit Dubai, and multiple performances at the United Nations and NY Indian Embassy. Additionally, Sophia has studied intensively under Kalaimamani Rama Vaidyanathan and has performed in her international tours of ‘Vivartana’. She is an ICCR Empaneled Artist, IndianRaga Fellow, and 2013 YoungArts Finalist. Known for her precise nritta and sensitive abhinaya, she is also a blossoming choreographer and often presents her own works as well as those of her guru’s. Her training in Carnatic music further enhances her involvement and emotional connection with the art form.

As a non-Indian artiste, she hopes to spread the message that art knows no cultural or religious boundaries.

Sophia is a graduate of Columbia University and is currently pursuing her medical degree at Weill Cornell Medical College while continuing to perform internationally.

Both Deeksha and Maitri Arya began their trysts with Bharatanatyam at the young ages of six years at the Prabhath
Academy for Music and Performing Arts under chief choreographer and instructor Guru Smt. Nirmala Madhava. The
sisters continued their Bharatanatyam classes under the tutelage of Guru Kalamandalam Smt. Usha Datar at the Datar
Insitute of Fine Arts. They completed their junior and senior level exams in the art form, conducted by the Karnataka State
Education Board, as well as their Bharatanatyam Arangetrams, with the guidance of Guru Sri Karthik Datar. In addition,
they have given over 100 dance performances and performed in multiple cultural events across India, and now in Canada.
Having relocated to two different cities to pursue their higher education, the sisters began conceptualizing,
choreographing, and producing virtual dance videos, laying emphasis to perfecting coordination to simulate an in-person
performance. Both Deeksha and Maitri are also training in Mohiniattam under Guru Smt. Dhanya Santhosh since 2013 and
have performed the dance form at multiple festivals. The sisters regularly volunteer for social causes alongside pursuing
professional careers and strive to maintain a perfect balance between all these interests.

Sai Preethi Sayini

Civil engineer by profession. Food, travel and dance enthusiast. Trained in Kuchipudi and performed different dance styles on multiple stages. 

Manasa Sherman 

Silicon engineer by profession and an avid nature lover. Extremely passionate about music and dance and pursued Carnatic vocal for many years. Enjoy the beauty of motherhood being around my child and dogs.

Mounika Meduri

A Talent Acquisition Specialist by profession and an ambivert in nature. Attracted towards music and dance since a very young age and performed Bharatanatyam and Kathak on several occasions.

Ramya Geethika Khandavilli

A software developer by profession and constantly inspired by the power of dance. Be it traditional or western, the combination of movement, rhythm, and emotion captivates me like nothing else.

Divine Rhythm Creative Arts Academy, founded by Himani Agarwal, is devoted to preserving Indian cultural heritage through Kathak dance.With over 15 years of experience, Himani is an accomplished choreographer, dancer, and Kathak teacher. As a disciple of Rukmani Devi and Pt Jai Kishan Maharaj Ji, she is carring the legacy of the world-renowned Kathak dancer, Padma Vibhushan, Birju Maharaj Ji. The academy offers personalized guidance through the revered “guru-shishya parampara,” nurturing a diverse group of students from various backgrounds and age groups.

In today’s mesmerizing dance performance, the students of Divine Rhythm Creative Arts Academy present “Geet Govind,” a captivating musical journey that portrays the contrasting aspects of Lord Krishna’s persona. The performance beautifully narrates both his mischievous behavior and enchanting looks, leaving the hearts and souls of devotees enthralled. On one side, the little Gopi girls express their affectionate frustrations, creating a tender and heartfelt scene. On the other side, they transcend earthly concerns, completely enchanted by Krishna’s tune, and gracefully surrender themselves to the divine dance.

This enchanting dance performance music is composed by esteemed Padma Vibhushan Pt Birju Maharaj Ji’s and skillfully choreographed by Himani Agarwal. With utmost dedication the talented performers Ambili Muraleedharan, Arshamani Aruvaythil, Jagisha Sekhri, Yatra Suthar, Aashvi Sharma, Gowri Hemanth Kumar, Aadya Goel, Shaleen singh, Nanda and Ganga Devi
are going to deliver this captivated dance performance

Join us for an enchanting evening of Kathak dance, an art form that traces its origins to ancient India and is renowned for its captivating storytelling. The word Kathak is derived from katha, meaning “the art of storytelling,” and is known for its intricate footwork, expressive gestures, and fluid movements.

This performance showcases the interplay between the dancer and the musicians, particularly the Tabla player, highlighting the special relationship that exists between dance and music. Traditional Kathak compositions, poetry, and storytelling will be featured in this unrehearsed and improvised performance, which highlights the four elements of Kathak dance: Tayyari, Laykari, Khoobsurti, and Nazakat.

Tayyari showcases the virtuosity of technique, speed, and endurance readiness, while Laykari highlights a deep understanding of rhythm and timing. Khoobsurti embodies beauty, grace, and delicacy, while Nazakat showcases subtlety and nuance. The importance of understanding and having knowledge of Taal (Rhythm) is evident, as the performance is always accompanied by live music, showcasing the high skill-level of performance in co-ordination and harmony with the musicians.

Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the magic of Vidhushi Kasturi Mishra as she takes command of the stage to bring to life the rich traditions and captivating stories of this ancient art form.”

Performers:

1. Vidushi Kasturi Mishra                         Principal Kathak Kalaakaar
2. Guru Ravi S. K. Singh                           Tabla/Nagara/Tassa
3. Pandit Pankaj Mishra                          Sarangi
4. Dr. Rashmi Venkateshwaran                Vocal
5. Sri. Vignesh Chandrasekhar                Harmonium
6. Sri. Samarpan Chakraborty                 Bol Paranth/Percussion
7. Sri. Ved Patel                                       Bol Paranth/Percussion