Sreedhara Akkihebbalu

🪔 About

Dr. Sreedhara Akkihebbalu is a distinguished Bharatanatyam dancer, choreographer, teacher, and musician, renowned for his contributions to Indian classical dance both in India and the United States. Trained under the esteemed gurus Sangeet Natak Academy awardee Smt. Narmada and Padmabhushan Smt. Kalanidhi Narayanan, he began his dance career in 1985 while pursuing a medical residency in Family Medicine. He holds the unique distinction of being the first male dancer from Karnataka to achieve the “ATop Grade Soloist” status for Television by Prasar Bharati, Government of India, a testament to his exceptional artistry and skill. Throughout his four-decade-long career, Dr. Akkihebbalu has performed extensively across India, the U.S., Canada, Australia, Europe, Bangladesh, Singapore, and Dubai, often partnering with leading Bharatanatyam exponents such as Hema Malini, Padmini Ravi, Prathibha Prahlad, Swapna Sundari, Uma Rao, and Bhanumati. His artistic vision has led to the creation of numerous acclaimed productions, including "Ramayana," "Shakti," "Radha Madhava," "Vikramorvashiyam," “Purandara Dasa”, “Yoga Vibhuti”, “Gita Govinda”, “Shataka Traya,” "Urvashi Won by Valor," "Radhava-Madhava: Epitome of Love and Spirituality," and "Anthapurageethe." In 2006, Dr. Akkihebbalu settled in the United States and founded Kaveri Natya Yoga in San Antonio, Texas, an institution dedicated to promoting the Pandanallur style of Bharatanatyam and Iyengar Yoga. Under his guidance, more than 50 students have graduated to perform professionally. He is also a Principal Teacher and Co-founder of the Esther Vexler Yoga School in San Antonio. Beyond performance and teaching, Dr. Akkihebbalu is highly regarded for his music compositions specifically tailored for Bharatanatyam, having recorded works by eminent composers like Jayachamrajendra Wodeyar, Padmacharan, and traditional Kannada Javalis, which are utilized by professional dancers worldwide. His multifaceted career seamlessly integrates his medical profession with his profound passion for classical arts and yoga. Awards & Honours: Junior Dance Fellowship, Senior Dance Fellowship, ATop Grade Soloist for Television.