Published – December 31, 2025 06:36 pm IST
Bangalore – Dancer Sathyanarayana Raju is embarking on an ambitious project: 60 Bharatanatyam performances within a year, a feat he began on January 6, 2025, and will culminate with his 60th recital on January 6, 2026. This isn’t just a display of stamina; it’s a heartfelt thank you to the gurus who shaped his artistic journey—Subhadra Prabhu, S. Narmada, and Maya Rao.
A Rocky Path to the Stage
Despite receiving the Karnataka Kalashree award in 2016-17 from the Karnataka Sangeetha Nrithya Academy, Sathyanarayana’s early career faced hurdles in a dance world that wasn’t always welcoming.
Sathyanarayana recalls being captivated by actor Jayapradha’s dance sequences in the film Siri Siri Muvva during middle school, sparking a lifelong passion. He secretly pursued his dream, even concealing his dance attire under trousers to avoid his father’s disapproval. “My mother was incredibly supportive,” he shares, “and I even incorporated her saris into my costumes. Sadly, she never had the chance to witness me perform.”
Driven by a desire to create opportunities for fellow male dancers, Sathyanarayana founded Samskruthi, a Bengaluru-based dance school, and organized Rasaabhinaya, an all-male classical dance festival, when celebrating 40 years in the art form. “I believed there were others like me eager to showcase their dedication and creativity,” he explains.
Dancer Sathyanarayana Raju
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Special Arrangement
At his 55th performance, hosted by Aishwarya Karthik and Gayatri of the Silambam Academy of Fine Arts and Silambam, Sathyanarayana received a standing ovation and noted a positive shift in attitudes towards male dancers. “It’s inspiring to see so many men embracing dance,” he said. “The growth of the arts relies on institutions that support emerging performers, especially those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, to foster an inclusive performing arts community.”
Still Going Strong
For his upcoming 60th performance, Sathyanarayana has chosen the ‘Ashtaragamalika Varna’ as his centerpiece. He first encountered the piece through his guru, Narmada, and describes it as a cornerstone of the Bharatanatyam repertoire. “It showcases the skill and artistry of the Tanjore Quartet—Ponnayya, Chinnayya, Shivanandam, and Vadivelu.”
The lyrics, ‘Saami Ninne Kori,’ depict a devotee’s evolving love for Lord Shiva, transitioning from playful affection to profound spiritual connection across eight ragas. The piece also features intricate rhythmic patterns and expressive dance passages, creating a serene and devotional experience. Sathyanarayana spent three years perfecting the varna to Narmada’s satisfaction. “I wish she were here to see me perform this dance, which she imbued with her unique style, though it was originally choreographed by Kitappa Pillai. This varna unfolds across eight ragas, integrated with aesthetic footwork and eight jathis in Rupaka tala.”
Sathyanarayana will be accompanied by vocalist Vasudha Balakrishna, Bharatha Narayan on the nattuvanga, mridangist Balakrishna SV, and flautist Karthik Sathavalli.
The 60th performance of the Shasti Varna Chakra by Sathyanarayana Raju will be presented by Natyagamya and Samskruthi at Meenakshi Rangamancha Auditorium, Doddakalasandra, Kanakapura Main Road on January 6, 2026, at 6pm. Admission is free and open to all.