In the world of classical dance, few individuals embody both the artistry and transformative power of the performing arts as Dr. Vandana Supriya Kasaravalli does. Known for her soul-stirring performances in Odissi, an ancient classical dance form, and her unwavering commitment to making dance accessible to marginalized communities, Vandana’s journey is a remarkable blend of personal dedication, cultural leadership, and social responsibility.
As a founder of the Anandi Arts Foundation and the Anandi School of Dance, Dr. Kasaravalli's work transcends the stage. Her focus is not just on refining technique but also on using dance as a tool for empowerment, especially for children from underprivileged backgrounds. This dual commitment to excellence in dance and social change has made her an influential figure in both the cultural and philanthropic spheres.
A Journey Rooted in Early Inspiration
Dr. Vandana Supriya Kasaravalli was born on June 9, 1986, in Bangalore, to Yashoda and Balraj. Growing up in an environment that encouraged creativity and expression, Vandana’s early years were shaped by her family’s nurturing support for the arts. She was introduced to the world of music, dance, and singing at an early age, setting the stage for what would become a lifelong journey.
Vandana attended the Sita School, an unconventional institution that valued experiential learning amidst nature and the arts. Here, the foundations of her artistic expression were laid, as dance and music became intertwined with her childhood education.
Her life took a pivotal turn when, at the age of seven, she fell in love with Odissi, an ancient dance form that would eventually become the soul of her artistic career. However, her story didn’t follow a traditional path.
Discovering Odissi: A Sacred Calling
Vandana’s professional dance journey began almost serendipitously when, during her undergraduate years at Mount Carmel College, a chance encounter led her to Nrityagram, the renowned dance Gurukul in Bangalore. Nrityagram, under the guidance of Protima Bedi, became her first home—a place where dance was taught as a spiritual practice, an art form that demanded not only physical discipline but emotional and mental commitment as well.
Despite pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Economics, and Sociology, Vandana chose to focus her energies on Odissi, a decision that would shape her life. Over time, Nrityagram became the sanctuary where she honed her skills and found her true calling as a performer and artist.
Choreography and the Art of Storytelling
Vandana’s path as a choreographer began at the Natya Institute of Kathak and Choreography, where she pursued a Diploma in Dance Choreography under the guidance of the esteemed Dr. Maya Rao and Madhu Natraj. At Natya, she delved deeper into the art of choreography—a form of dance that tells powerful stories through movement, expression, and rhythm.
As her experience as a performer deepened, so did her understanding of bhava (emotional expression) in dance, which became a signature aspect of her style. It was at Natya that Vandana discovered her ability to infuse Odissi with deep emotional nuance, making each performance more than just an aesthetic experience but an immersive journey for the audience.
The Road Less Traveled: Soloist and Social Advocate
After completing her training, Vandana joined the STEM Dance Kampni, a diverse platform that allowed her to explore various dance forms, including Indian contemporary and Kathak. Here, she developed a well-rounded understanding of dance, which gave her the versatility to blend classical and contemporary styles.
However, it was during this time that Vandana’s Odissi soloist journey began to take shape. With dedication and perseverance, she carved out a name for herself as a prominent performer, known for her evocative portrayals and emotional depth. Over the years, her performances gained significant recognition, establishing her as one of the leading Odissi artists of her generation.
In 2013, Vandana founded the Anandi School of Dance to spread the knowledge and practice of Odissi to young dancers, especially in southern India. The school quickly became a nurturing ground for aspiring performers, offering them not only technical training but also an understanding of the profound cultural heritage embedded in classical dance.
Anandi Arts Foundation: Giving Back to the Community
In 2016, Vandana took her mission to an even higher level by founding the Anandi Arts Foundation, an initiative that seeks to democratize the arts. One of the foundation’s major achievements has been its focus on making dance accessible to children from underprivileged communities. Through its work, the foundation has successfully trained over 150 children from a government school in RMV 2nd Stage, Bangalore, completely free of charge. These children now have the opportunity to learn and perform Odissi, which has transformed their lives in profound ways.
The foundation also hosts two prominent cultural festivals—ASMI and BHAAVA—which serve as platforms for young dancers to showcase their talent alongside established artists. Through these festivals, Vandana aims to empower future generations of dancers by providing them the exposure and confidence they need to succeed.
A Legacy of Cultural Leadership
Through the Anandi Arts Foundation, Dr. Vandana Kasaravalli has worked relentlessly to create spaces where art meets community. Her collaborations with various NGOs and cultural institutions have helped take the message of dance to even the most marginalized sections of society. Whether through workshops, performances, or collaborative projects, she has used her dance as a force for good, touching lives far beyond the stage.
As a director of arts and culture, Vandana has also worked with prestigious institutions, helping shape the cultural landscape of India. Her dynamic leadership and commitment to diverse art forms have earned her recognition in the arts community, not just as a performer, but as a visionary cultural ambassador.
Family: A Foundation of Support and Inspiration
Vandana’s personal life is equally intertwined with the arts. In 2017, she married Apurva Kasaravalli, a renowned filmmaker and cultural curator. Apurva is the son of Padma Shri Girish Kasaravalli, one of India’s most celebrated filmmakers. This marriage brought Vandana into a family with a rich legacy in cinema, culture, and social change.
Together, Vandana and Apurva are raising their son, Aarav Neal Kasaravalli, in an environment that celebrates creativity, education, and cultural dialogue. Vandana’s role as a mother and daughter-in-law of Girish Kasaravalli brings a deep sense of continuity and cultural respect to her life.
Her family’s support, coupled with her own strength and vision, has helped Vandana become the person she is today—a woman of purpose, grace, and resilience.
Conclusion: A Life in Dance and Service
From her humble beginnings to becoming one of India’s leading Odissi soloists, Dr. Vandana Supriya Kasaravalli’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and purpose. She doesn’t just dance; she tells stories that transcend generations, connecting individuals to their own emotions and cultural roots.
Her work as an artist and educator continues to make waves in the cultural community, but her greatest achievement lies in how she’s used her talents to inspire, uplift, and transform. Through her school, foundation, and performances, she remains committed to preserving the rich heritage of Odissi while paving the way for future generations of dancers.
In Vandana’s world, every dance is a message, every movement a story, and every performance a reflection of the soul. She is more than just a dancer—she is a cultural changemaker whose impact will be felt for generations to come.
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