New Delhi based professional Kuchipudi exponent T Lakshmi Reddi is one of the foremost disciples of renowned Kuchipudi exponents and mentors, "Padmashri" Guru Jayarama Rao and Vanashree Rao, they have trained several students, Lakshmi holds the distinction of being among the most brilliant and has already performed in 17 countries.

Kuchipudi artists in India.  For her Kuchipudi is, far from being just an art form that she performs with unparalleled passion, a way of life, a devotion. This unwavering commitment towards the performing art was formed deep roots on moving to Delhi and training with eminent Kuchipudi Gurus, Padmasri Jayarama Rao, Vanashree Rao, for over 18 years now.

Her performances, adjudged by some of the most unforgiving critics of the Indian classical dances, have received remarkable acclaim for reflecting her sincerity and dedication towards the classical art form. Critics have time and again anointed her the ‘complete dancer’ carrying the quintessential quicksilver movements typical to the Kuchipudi style. For her appealing rendition of various abhinayas, she has been admired alike by some of the doyens of various classical dance forms, as from most sought after critics. She has performed widely in India and abroad in solo performances and has also danced alongside her Gurus. She has performed in countries like Peru, Costa Rica, Canada, Malaysia, Bhutan under the flag of ICCR. She has also had the privilege of performing in the Rashtrapati Bhawan, before Presidents of the BRICS countries.

She is also conducting free Kuchipudi classes for underprivileged children from Samarpan School in Delhi, besides her regular workshop demonstrations under the SPICMACAY.  

Lakshmi in an exclusive interview with Guru Vijay Shanker talks about her devotion for classical dancing, her varied experiences as a performer, teacher and much more.

Is dance your personal choice or hereditary?

Learning Classical dance was my childhood dream. I was always attracted to classical dance and music naturally and my father T.S. Viswanadham made my dream come true by finding an institute to learn Classical Dance when I moved to Delhi for higher studies. 

What fascinates you most about Kuchipudi?

Literally everything, but to be specific, I would say the freedom that it offers, to develop the "manodharma"(mental ability) of the character represented, as classical dancing is based on the exploration of different stories of Hindu mythology.

When and why did you decide to become a professional dancer?

From the time I started learning dance, all my decisions related to studies and jobs revolved around it. I made the decision to become a professional dancer when my 9-5 job became strenuous and time consuming, I couldn't give enough time to practice, concentrate and perfect my art. I knew then that it was time for me to take the long-pending decision and made a choice. It was either money or contentment and I chose the latter. 

Your experience with your mentors Guru Jayarama Rao and Vanashree?

Both of them are legends in the field. Their life experiences are an inspiration and helped me shape my dancing career. My first international tour was with them. It is my fortune to be their disciple. Guruji is a constant guide and support to me and I always look up to him for anything. On the other hand, Vanashree Ma'am taught all of us the way to be an artist on and off stage and keep all of us inspired with her work both in our personal and professional life. 

Most memorable experience or performance of yours?

My tour to Canada with my Guru's, as part of their Kuchipudi Dance Ensemble.  Performing full-length "Bhama Kalapam"  in Hyderabad for Nartanam Conclave along with my Guru as "Sutradhara" (story teller) is my favourite performance. 

Your experience pertaining to your performances both in India and abroad?

Both are unique in their own way. I am always excited to perform whether it is on a national or international platform. Both have their own set of challenges to face and it's this very aspect that makes the life of an artist complete and full filled. 

Which role of yours is most important and why, daughter, wife, mother, dancer, teacher or choreographer?

I want to be a student forever as the process of learning is continuous, the more you learn, you realise that you know very little and that helps in shaping your complete personality and contributing to the society in different ways and different roles, if you feel satisfied, you don’t really grow, since I have the dual role of a performer and teacher, you should be an inspiration for others.

Are you satisfied with your contribution as a dancer and teacher, what's your definition of an ideal dancer?

There is no limit to contribution whether it's as a dancer, teacher or a human being, we can contribute a lot to the society,. Contributing is not crucial but finding the resources to contribute is. I will always look for ways to contribute more in my own way. There is so much that can be done but resources are essential to grow and develop, I feel an ideal dancer is one who identifies their own flaws first and corrects them. Also, someone who can accept the possibility of others being better at some way or the other and trying to improve your personality consistently.  

Your future plans and aspirations?

To be an artist forever and do my bit for society by being the same.

Interviewed by Guru Vijay Shanker

Guru Vijay Shanker is a professional Kuchipudi, Kathakali, Bharata Natyam exponent, dance teacher, choreographer, actor and eminent arts critic for over four decades based in Mumbai. He can be contacted on email: vijaydance@gmail.com