Sappa Durga Prasad

🪔 About

Dr. Sappa Durga Prasad is a renowned Indian classical dance guru, researcher, and cultural historian, celebrated for his profound contributions to the revival and propagation of Andhra Natyam and Perini Siva Thandavam. Born on November 7, 1959, in Rajamahendravaram, Andhra Pradesh, he inherited a deep passion for dance from his father. Under the tutelage of the legendary Nataraja Ramakrishna, Dr. Prasad mastered both the vigorous 13th-century Kakatiya-era dance form, Perini Siva Thandavam, and Andhra Natyam. His dedication led Nataraja Ramakrishna to name him his artistic successor. Inspired by the intricate sculptures of the Ramappa Temple and guided by the historical text Nrityaratnavali, Dr. Prasad significantly contributed to the revival of these ancient dance forms. In 1983, driven by a commitment to preserve and propagate these arts, he founded Nataraja Nritya Niketan in Rajamahendravaram, establishing it as the first dedicated institute for Andhra Natyam and Perini Siva Thandavam. Over four decades, the institute has trained thousands of students, transforming Rajamahendravaram into a vibrant center for classical dance. Dr. Prasad's extensive research has unearthed and reintroduced several lost temple dance traditions, including Siva Panchamukha Narthana, Ahobila Nrishimha Vijayam, and Chidambara Nataraja Koutham. He also revived sacred Yagna Narthanas like Pancha Bhuta Awahana and Ashtadikpalaka Awahana, reaffirming the spiritual essence of temple dance through Nritya Pujas, Nritya Aradhanas, and Narthana Yajnams. A prolific scholar and artist, Dr. Prasad has authored books such as Sirimuvvalu, Alaya Nrityam, and Narthana Charitalu, and choreographed acclaimed dance ballets including Bhakta Annamacharya, Pushkara Gowthami, and Bhasmasura Charitam. He has delivered over 1,550 lectures on Alaya Nritya across Asia and conducted Nritya Aradhana in 200 temples. His disciples have carried his teachings across India and internationally to countries like Canada, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka. He has been honored with numerous accolades, including the UNESCO Cultural Man of the Year award, the Kala Ratna Puraskaram from the Andhra Pradesh government, and honorary doctorates. His achievements are also recognized in the Limca Book of Records, India Book of Records, and Golden Book of Records (USA). Dr. Prasad recently celebrated 50 years of dedicated service to classical dance, a testament to his lifelong commitment to preserving India's rich dance heritage. Awards & Honours: UNESCO Cultural Man of the Year award, Kala Ratna Puraskaram, Honorary Doctorate, Honorary Doctorate, Limca Book of Records, India Book of Records, Golden Book of Records (USA), Telugu Book of Records.