Meet Sreelakshmy Govardhanan, an accomplished Indian classical dancer and disciple of Sri Pasumarthy Rattaiha Sarma, who has created her space in the Kuchipudi world by dint of her immense talent and unrelenting handwork. She has been actively researching in Kuchipudi and creating new choreographies that echoes even with contemporary society.
Founder and artistic director of Avantika Space for dance, where she moulds the next generation to master the fine traits of the pure form of Kuchipudi.
Here is the summary of the conversation we had with Sreelakshmy.
- Transition from a psychological counsellor to full-time dance was not easy.
- When I was 28 years and decided to take my plunge, I did not look for acceptance. I was fortunate to have my dear ones who supported me along my journey.
- It was more difficult for my parents and they did have societal pressure. However, over a period of time, they managed to handle them.
- Most of us hold ourselves back assuming that we need to be stable. This never works. It is easier to decide how much finances we need and then plan the journey.
- We need to have faith in ourselves. If not we stay being a dreamer with no action.
- Lockdown was truly a testing time for me. I believe I have the blessings of my guru and dear ones to figure it out.
- Work and life is not different for me.
- Never loose yourself, alway ensure that you keep your identity.
- Art is like a possessive mistress, it won’t leave you.
- I am still learning.
- Do something for your soul. Be gracious and good to yourself.
- Each one of us have the masculinity and femininity inherent in us.
