Abhyudaya Festival – A Celebration of Classical Dance Traditions

Hyderabad, April 20, 2025: The 4th edition of the Abhyudaya Festival, curated by Subbulakshmi’s Nrityashala, was held at Sacred Space, Secunderabad, under the artistic direction of Smt. Subbulakshmi, a distinguished alumna of Kalakshetra. This non-profit initiative continues its mission of promoting classical dance by providing a platform for solo, group, and traditional performances, while encouraging meaningful artistic exchange.

The festival opened with a graceful Odissi recital by Reebdhita Barua, captivating the audience with her expressive artistry. This was followed by a traditional Bharatanatyam Margam presented by the Nrityashala ensemble, showcasing the elegance and precision of the classical form. The evening culminated in a mesmerizing solo performance by Apoorva Jayaraman, a senior disciple of Smt. Priyadarsini Govind, who presented a rich repertoire ranging from Alaripu to Abhang, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

Founded in 2009, Subbulakshmi’s Nrityashala has played a pivotal role in promoting Bharatanatyam as a means of education and empowerment. Smt. Subbulakshmi, who also serves as a dance educator at The Hyderabad Public School, continues to inspire excellence—one of her students recently secured a perfect score in the Class 10 board exam for Bharatanatyam.

Currently pursuing her Ph.D., Smt. Subbulakshmi’s research explores storytelling through dance as a pedagogical tool, aiming to engage and educate children through the performing arts.

The Abhyudaya Festival stands as a testament to artistic excellence and cultural preservation, offering a vibrant platform for celebrating India’s rich classical dance heritage.