‘The structure of dance remains unchanged despite the language in which it is expressed’: Drs Raja Radha Reddy

In your journey of so many years, how would you say dance, as a medium of expression, has changed in the country?

Dance is an art that communicates through manifold rhythmic patterns, melodic progressions, gestures, and subtle specific facial expressions. Such an uncommon combination is not seen anywhere else in the world. Dance is a lyrical way to portray life; it offers an ethereal feeling.

In earlier times, there were no microphones or lighting effects on stages or in theatres, hence, hand gestures (mudras) were highly valued. However, the only thing that changes is the presentation. Just like new water pours in but the banks remain the same, this divine art form draws its inspiration from Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati capturing the essence of the four Vedas.

How would you describe the essence of Kuchipudi?

Dance and expressiveness are combined in Kuchipudi performances. While pure dancing is referred to as ‘nritta’, expression and rhythmic movements are referred to as ‘nritya’, which are used as sign languages to convey the drama. Vachika abhinaya, or speaking a few words while performing is also used, as well as artistic expressions. With the use of rhythm and hand gestures, this dance style combines theatre and temple dance.

 

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Would you agree that change is inevitable? If yes, what must be kept in mind while adapting to the changes to retain originality and authenticity?

The structure of dance remains unchanged despite the language in which it is expressed. We have showcased Hindi and Telugu dance productions in northern parts of India, too. One of our Hindi recital presentations is a performance called Meera Bhajan, for which the music was produced by Pandit Ravi Shankar. We were greatly praised for our rendition of Hindustani music. In fact, former President of India Dr APJ Abdul Kalam also urged us to compose pieces as he was himself wrote poetry in Tamil and English. We devoted our efforts to enhancing his compositions, such as Wisdom Tree and Our Nation Bharat. Dancing is an influential means of conveying messages. It seamlessly blends traditional practices with modern aspirations. Dance teaches history to today’s youth.

How popular, according to you, is Kuchipudi on a global level as compared to Bharatanatyam and Kathak?

Though our dance form received late recognition, Kuchipudi is now quite well-known. We have given performances at the India Festival in Washington, New York, and London. The intriguing aspect is that Kuchipudi was chosen out of the six dance forms that were presented. Similar to today, this classical art form was requested to be performed last in 1982 out of 6 performances. The performance, however, astounded the then President of Cuba, who requested the then Prime Minister to bring the same to his nation.

So, in September 1983, we exhibited our dance for three days. After the show, they shared their impressions with India, expressing their deep admiration for India’s multifaceted beauty, as exemplified by the dance performance they had just witnessed. My spouse and I were individually awarded the Padma Shri Award. It was a significant moment in the country’s history when two people from the same family simultaneously won one of the country’s most prestigious awards.

Dr(s) Raja Radha Reddy with their family. (Photo: PR handout)

While many dance forms have been depicted in mainstream cinema, Kuchipudi has not so much. Why do you think it is so?

Maybe because choreographers do not how to perform this dance form. However, we have received many offers to represent our dance forms in mainstream films. My two daughters were even asked to appear in the film, but we refused. As far as I know, there are quite a few Kuchipudi dance pieces in the South Indian film industry.

Alternatively, do you feel that the Indian film industry, especially Bollywood, has led to the commercialisation of classical dance forms?

Directors want the movie to be a success, no matter what dance they perform in it. It also depends on the plot. The story is told through performance, and a dance form is performed that complements the story.

 

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How important are events like ‘International Dance Day’ — do they really help create awareness about the many dance forms?

Celebrations such as the International Day of Dance hold deep significance in increasing knowledge and promoting the art of dance. Every year on April 29, we partake in events. For more than five decades, we have rehearsed and executed the dance style. Furthermore, Yamini Reddy and Bhavana Reddy, our daughters, are carrying the family’s legacy. The family aims to share this skill globally. Bharat is renowned for its dancing, and in the past, people from across the globe would visit to gain knowledge about this distinctive style of dance.

It is often not easy for artistes of traditional dance forms when it comes to revenues. What are your views on the same?

We have never requested anyone to organise our program. We first came to Delhi with a scholarship for choreography and had to go back to Hyderabad since we didn’t have a job or means of sustaining ourselves after finishing choreography. But prior to our departure, we were asked to perform. We presented Delhi’s first full-length Kuchipudi dance in front of my mentor (guru), and our lives were transformed — since we were featured in all major national newspapers. We pour our passion and efforts into each and every show. These enabled us to commence a fresh chapter in our lives in Delhi, where we currently educate and showcase our skills.

Dr(s) Raja Radha Reddy. (Photo: PR handout)

What is the most challenging thing about Kuchipudi — the form, and being an artiste of the same?

Every dance form has its challenges, and Kuchipudi does too. But once the basics are clear, you are more likely to excel in any dance form and your efforts will pay off. Dance is, ultimately, a sacred art. Although all dance forms are different, they are similar as they are guided by the principle of Natyashastra.

You have taught many students over the years. What is the one life lesson you always teach them?

I have always focused on bringing my spirit to each performance; something that brings ultimate satisfaction. I impart to my students the knowledge to perform the dance form described in our Shastras and Natyashastra, which my Guru taught intensively. Step by step we complete the mudras, expressions, and body movements. After all, authenticity shouldn’t die.

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