Sasikala Penumarthi and her students recently showcased the profound poetry of Annamayya through an exquisite Kuchipudi performance at Emory University. The recital was part of a broader initiative to bring Telugu arts to life through music, dance, and poetry. Penumarthi, a renowned Kuchipudi dancer and a faculty member at Emory, has been instrumental in promoting this classical Indian art form in the U.S.
During the event, the troupe performed a variety of pieces that reflected the spiritual depth and emotional range of Annamayya’s compositions. Kuchipudi, known for its graceful storytelling, was the perfect medium to express Annamayya’s devotion to Lord Venkateshwara, blending intricate footwork, expressive gestures, and traditional music. Penumarthi, alongside her students, captivated the audience with their elegant performances, making Annamayya’s 15th-century devotional poetry accessible and resonant for modern audiences.
Source: nripulse.com