Students of Nritya Maadhuryam, a facet of Sri Sathya Sai Gnyana Dayini, have brought laurels to the Sri Sathya Sai Premaarpitham Foundation by winning titles at well-known dance competitions over the past two months. Trained in Bharatanatyam, students Priyanka R, Lavanya N, and Keerthana have each been recognised for their talent and dedication, making the entire community proud and standing as a testament to their hard work and the impact of the programme.
About the Nritya Maadhuryam Programme
The Nritya Maadhuryam programme began in August 2023 with a small group of students and has steadily grown over the last two and a half years. Bharatanatyam classes are conducted once every week by Acharyas at Sri Sathya Sai Vaatsalyam.
The programme focuses on providing quality classical dance training to students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, drawing participants from villages around the ashram. Over time, the students have grown into confident and passionate dancers. They have successfully completed two milestone examinations and have participated in several group performances, marking important stages in their learning journey.
This strong foundation has now set the stage for the students to step beyond the classroom and participate in external competitions, showcasing their talent on larger platforms.
Students Shine at the Pratibha Karanji Competition
Pratibha Karanji is a large-scale, multi-tiered cultural and literary competition organised by the Department of Education, Government of Karnataka, for primary and high school students across the state.
Over the last two months, three students from the Nritya Maadhuryam programme participated in this prestigious competition and secured placements in their respective categories.
- Keerthana, a 1st PU student from Bharati PU College, won first place at the Taluk and District levels, secured second place at the sub-district level, and was selected to participate at the State level in the Folk Dance category.
- Lavanya N, a Grade 9 student from St Anne’s High School, won first place at the School level and third place at the Hobli level in the Classical Dance category.
- Priyanka R, a Grade 8 student from Vishvodaya High School, won first place at the Hobli level and third place at the Taluk level in the Classical Dance category.
The students presented dance pieces learnt through their regular training at Nritya Maadhuryam. Their achievements are the result of consistent practice, discipline, and a deep commitment to the art form. The preparation for the competition involved rigorous learning and refinement, clearly reflecting their artistic growth over the past few years.
Reflecting on her journey, Keerthana shared,
“I had never imagined performing outside the ashram or travelling beyond my village for competitions. Through Nritya Maadhuryam and Swami’s blessings, I found the confidence to step forward and present my talent. Our teachers—Sathvika akka, Aparna akka, and Sourabha akka—are extremely supportive. Whenever there is a competition, they are even more excited and nervous than we are. They help us with everything we need and are always approachable and available for guidance.”
Priyanka expressed how the experience shaped her outlook, saying,
“I have always wished to participate in programmes and competitions, and that wish became a reality when I got the opportunity to take part in the Pratibha Karanji Bharatanatyam competition. Performing Vara Veena and Mandara Dharare on such a platform was a memorable experience, and winning prizes taught me the importance of perseverance, sincerity, and always giving my best.”
For Lavanya, the journey went far beyond results. She shared,
“Although I secured first place at the school level in Pratibha Karanji, what stood out most for me was the experience itself. We are still in the learning phase, but participating in such competitions boosted my confidence and increased my interest in learning and developing this art form further. There was so much to learn from watching and interacting with other competitors, and the entire journey made me deeply grateful to Swami and my teachers for the opportunity.”
Beyond awards and placements, the competition played a significant role in building the students’ confidence and self-belief, opening new horizons and inspiring them to continue their artistic journeys with dedication and joy.
A Moment of Pride and Gratitude
These accomplishments were a proud moment not only for the students but also for their parents, Acharyas, and the Sri Sathya Sai Premaarpitham Foundation. They stand as a reminder of what becomes possible when children are nurtured with care, opportunity, and encouragement.
“I feel extremely fortunate to be a teacher to such a dedicated group of students. They put in their best efforts and learn with great interest. With Bhagawan’s grace and loving blessings, they have reached a stage where they are performing and winning titles beyond the classroom, which brings us immense joy and pride,” says sister Sathvika Krishnan, an Acharya of Nritya Maadhuryam.
Empowered Through Love and Learning
As the students continue their learning journey, they are being empowered in ways both seen and unseen. For children from such backgrounds, access to training in classical arts was once a distant dream, now gradually transforming into reality.
More than the titles and recognition, this achievement reflects the power of love in action, the very essence that Sri Sathya Sai Premaarpitham Foundation stands for. At the Foundation, it is our constant endeavour to live up to Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s legacy of love and selfless service, enabling holistic growth in every child.
The Foundation extends its heartfelt wishes to the students for continued success and prays that they keep progressing on their artistic and personal journeys with grace, humility, and joy.
