Sridevi Unni

🪔 About

Sreedevi Unni is a celebrated Indian classical dancer, choreographer, and guru, primarily renowned for her contributions to Mohiniyattam. With a career spanning over four decades, she has dedicated herself to the promotion and preservation of this classical dance form. Born in Kozhikode, Kerala, she received training in various dance forms including Bharatanatyam, Kathakali, Kaikottikali, and Kumi before specializing in Mohiniyattam. Unni founded the Nrithyavedi dance academy in Bengaluru (Bangalore) in 1979, aiming to popularize Mohiniyattam beyond its native Kerala. Following the tragic demise of her daughter, acclaimed actress Monisha Unni, in 1992, she renamed the institution to Monisha Arts Academy in 1995, transforming her grief into a platform for nurturing young talent. As the founder and director of Monisha Arts, she has been instrumental in expanding the reach of classical arts education and performances in Karnataka. Her pioneering efforts in Karnataka have significantly helped popularize Mohiniyattam in the region. Sreedevi Unni is also known for her innovative choreographies, often blending Mohiniyattam with local Karnataka traditions and incorporating works by poets like Kuvempu and Purandara Dasa. She has performed at major festivals such as Dasara, Hampi, and Kadamba. Beyond dance, Sreedevi Unni is also an accomplished actress, known for her work in Malayalam cinema and television serials, often portraying maternal roles. She continues to perform, choreograph, and conduct workshops, shaping the future of Mohiniyattam with grace and authenticity. Her resilience and dedication to dance, especially after personal tragedy, have been widely noted, with dance serving as a therapeutic outlet. Awards & Honours: Karnataka Kalashree (2001), Karnataka Kalashree (2002), Woman of Substance award (2013), Lifetime contribution award to Mohiniyattam (2013), Maharaja Swatitirunal Excellency Award (2017).