Rukmini Devi Arundale: A Centenary Tribute
2003 being the Rukmini Devi Centenary year, the trustees have decided to recognize the respect and regard which the Sadasivams had for her. They, as well as Kalki Krishnamurthy, were strong supporters of Kalakshetra and the many other dimensions of Rukmini Devi’s work. Therefore, the Kalki Sadasivam Memorial Trust is proud to associate itself with the year long celebrations to commemorate the centenary of Rukmini Devi Arundale, a visionary who played a major role in the revival of Bharatanatyam and founded a world class institution for the arts in
Kalakshetra.
Rukmini Devi choreographed themes from myth and legend to instill ideals in her young students, making great poetry and music a part of their daily existence. To her, the classical and folk arts were a quest for self discovery, for nurturing the imagination. She was a committed advocate of animal welfare; an educationist who set up Montessori schools and teacher training centers. She promoted causes ranging from environment conservation to nurturing indigenous crafts.
Leela Samson is one of Kalakshetra’s outstanding alumna, privileged to study there during Rukmini Devi’s lifetime and play the leading role in many of her dance drama productions. Admired as a leading exponent of Bharatanatyam, she has also established a reputation as a dance teacher of excellence.
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