Smt. Srilatha Suri

🪔 About

Smt. Srilatha Suri is a highly respected figure in Indian classical dance, particularly renowned for her contributions to Kuchipudi. Her artistic journey spans over six decades, marked by a deep commitment to tradition, innovation, and philanthropy. She began her dance training in Bharatanatyam, initiated by her art-loving parents, and completed seven years of advanced training under Guru Smt. Jayalakshmi Narayana in the Pandanallur style, culminating in her arangetram in 1982. Inspired by the performances of Padma Shree Dr. Sobha Naidu, Srilatha Suri pursued Kuchipudi, becoming a senior disciple at Dr. Sobha Naidu's Kuchipudi Academy in Hyderabad, India. She further solidified her academic credentials by completing a Masters in Kuchipudi from Silicon Andhra University. As a performer, Srilatha Suri has given over 700 solo performances and toured extensively with her guru, Dr. Sobha Naidu, across India, the United States, and Trinidad and Tobago in 1985. Her dedication to the art form led her to establish the Natyanjali Kuchipudi Dance School in Plano, Texas, around 1999, with additional branches in Coppell, Frisco, and Irving. As the Artistic Director, she is responsible for training students, choreographing innovative pieces, and directing dance dramas based on scriptures and social issues, such as "Meera," "Shiva Ganga," and "Kalyana Srinivasam." She has mentored over 300 students, many of whom have achieved national and international recognition, including state and national level dance scholarships. Her students also participated in the International Kuchipudi Convention, contributing to a Guinness World Record. Srilatha Suri is also involved in community service as a co-director of Echoes of India, a non-profit organization, and as the Cultural Coordinator for the Dallas Chapter of Yuva Bharathi, promoting emerging artists and raising funds for various charitable causes. Awards & Honours: Diploma in Bharatanatyam (1980), Natyavisharada (1984), Nritya Bharathi (2002), Special Recognition Award (2005), Special Recognition Award (2008), Natya Mayuri (2009), Recognition Award (2010), Natya Kalapraporna (2011), Acharya Siromani (2011), Appreciation Award (2012), TANA Recognition Award (2012), Natya Kala Choodamani (2012), Recognition by Mayor of Cupertino, Recognition by Mayor of Garland, TX.