Krishna Gana Sabha, a premier cultural organization in Chennai, has conferred its highest honor, the NRITYA CHOODAMANI, on Delhi-based dancer Vidushi (Padmashri) Geeta Chandran. The award recognizes an exemplary artist who has dedicated her life to promoting and preserving her chosen art form and contributing significantly to society through her performances and sustained commitment.
The award ceremony will take place on December 13, 2024, during the inaugural event of the 68th Marghazi Mela at the Krishna Gana Sabha’s auditorium in Chennai. The NRITYA CHOODAMANI symbolizes the pinnacle of recognition for Geeta Chandran’s lifelong dedication to Bharatanatyam and her impact on the art world.
Geeta Chandran is celebrated as one of the leading figures in Indian classical dance globally. She is not only a distinguished dancer but also an accomplished Dance Guru, Scholar, Choreographer, Media Personality, and Carnatic Vocalist. Through her multi-faceted talents, she enriches the universe with Bharatanatyam. As the Founder-President of NATYA VRIKSHA in New Delhi, established in 1991, she has nurtured art education, mentorship, and the development of young artists. Her holistic teaching approach integrates classical dance learning with diverse disciplines and values, championing tradition while transcending linguistic barriers to create meaningful choreographies that contribute to broader societal dialogue.
Beyond her role as a performer and educator, Geeta Chandran is an arts administrator, mentor, and philanthropist. She is committed to integrating arts education into formal curricula and supports various social causes. Her dynamic performances reflect her vision of an interconnected, inclusive, and transformative cultural experience.
Geeta Chandran’s illustrious career spans five decades, marking 50 years of engagement with Bharatanatyam since her arangetram in 1974. Throughout her career, she has received numerous accolades, including the Padmashri in 2007, the Central Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2016, and the Tagore National Fellowship for 2017-2018.
She curated Dance at the prestigious Serendipity Arts Festival in 2022 and 2023 and continues in this role in 2024. Geeta Chandran’s contributions to the arts have left an indelible mark, and the NRITYA CHOODAMANI honor underscores her exceptional contributions and unwavering commitment to Bharatanatyam and cultural enrichment.