Shrimathi Gayatri Devi: Bharata Natyam Classical Dancer
Smt. Gayatri Devi, a Bharata Natyam dancer, teacher, and a choreographer of eminence, is one of the most senior and outstanding disciples of the legendary artist Smt. Rukmini Devi Arundale of Kalakshetra. Gayatri Devi is acclaimed today as one of the nationally and internationally reputed exponents of the classical dance form Bharata Natyam. Her dance style is known for clarity, purity, elegance and dignity. She has been featured on PBS Channels 21 and 13, in the New York Times and many local media outlets. She was one of seven South Asians honored by the Office of Comptroller of New York for her commendable service in the field of performing arts. Kartik Fine Arts Sabha in Chennai honored her in 2004 for her continuous and remarkable contribution to Bharata Natyam in India and abroad. Her numerous titles include ‘Kalai Arasi’ (Queen of Dance), ‘Sringar Mani’, and ‘Natya Tharagai’ (Star of Dance).
Smt. Gayatri is the Founder President and Artistic Director of ‘Aum Upasana,’ an Institute in service of Dance and Music. ‘Aum Upasana’ is her dedicated and sincere efforts to follow the ideals of her alma mater with the touch of her own artistic expression. Her professional life has spanned over 35 years, starting with ‘Nav Ras’ in early seventies, her pioneer dance institute. She has trained and presented many aspirants from every community in India and the United States. She has choreographed many solo and dance drama presentations. Her numerous dance dramas include ‘Bharatanjali,’ ‘Natya Veda,’ ‘Krishnam Vande Jagadgurum,’ ‘Mahishasura Mardini,’ ‘Nritya Ramayan,’ and ‘Dance Divine,’ depicting the life of Sant Meera and Poetess Andal, all to rave reviews. She is also associated with and imparts her divine art at the premier cultural centers at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, USA and at the Young Indian Culture Group of Long Island.
Smt. Gayatri Devi, a recipient of the Fulbright award, was invited to teach in the USA as a visiting professor of Fine Arts by a consortium of Universities. She was nominated to represent the Government of India as a cultural ambassador on various occasions. She has given several lectures, demos, and workshops and was invited as a judge and examiner by prestigious universities and other organizations. She has traveled all over the world—Australia, Fiji Islands, Europe, South East Asia, former U.S.S.R, and all of USA, giving performances, winning acclaim and laurels. All reviews of her performances have unequivocally lauded her command and mastery over the medium of dance form Bharata Natyam and her ability to give cogent demonstration explanations, which make her virtuoso recital an educational experience as well.
Smt. Gayatri Devi is available for workshops and choreography. To contact her please call Long Island Traditions at (516) 767-8803.