Visakhapatnam, July 13, 2013: A number of young classical dancers from Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Tanuku, Hyderabad, Korba, Bhilai and Kharagpur, apart from the city, have lined up to exhibit their skill at the State-level competition organised by Natyaravali Music and Dance Academy in collaboration with Andhra University.

Young dancers were curious to perform various dance forms like Kuchipudi, Bharatanatyam, folk dance, group classical dance apart from cine-classical and group at the three-day contest which began on Friday at Andhra University Central Canteen.

For participants, the forum means more than just performing the classical dance. Pranavi, who came down from Tanuku to perform Bhama Kalapam says, “Participating in such competitions not only make me learn from others but also help me become a better artist for the next contest.”

“Contests such as this help me pick the nuances of the art and understand the essence of classical music in a better perspective,” explains Anjushri, another participant.

For dancer Neelima, the competition makes her learn various ‘bhavanas’ and ‘mudras’ and work on the challenges to perform better.

This is the 23{+r}{+d}annual competition that the academy is organising for sub-juniors (below 10 years), juniors (below 15 years) and for seniors (above 15 years). A total of 312 contestants are expected to perform in the three-day competition. The concept is to encourage young dancers come together, showcase their expertise and promote our Indian culture, said founder of the academy U. Mahesh Babu and president Pilla Rambabu.

The contest was inaugurated by AU Rector S. Ganapathi. Professor of AU of Institute of Advanced Studies in Education Mantri Madan Mohan and bharatanatyam dance masters S. Murali Babu and Venkat are some of the judges of the competition. On Sunday evening, winners and participants will be given away prizes and certificates on the premises.

Source: The Hindu, DT. July 13, 2013.