Join the Rhythm at Sampradaayam Cultural Trust – A Dance Sanctuary with a Splash of Heritage, Nature, and a Whole Lot of Heart!!!

Nestled in the tranquil village of Kallepally, Srikakulam, the Sampradaayam Cultural Trust shines like a gem in the realm of classical dance. A stone’s throw from the District Collectorate and set against the serene backdrop of the Nagavali River, this 11-acre haven is where the ancient art of Kuchipudi is not just preserved but celebrated with a fervour that transcends time. At the heart of this cultural sanctuary is Swathi Somanath, whose unwavering dedication to Kuchipudi has transformed Sampradaayam from a mere institution into a dynamic cultural movement.

Swathi Somanath’s journey into the world of Kuchipudi is a compelling narrative of unyielding passion and perseverance. Hailing from the serene district of Srikakulam in Andhra Pradesh, Swathi was born as Dusi Swathi in the small town of Chakradharpur, Bihar, and grew up surrounded by the vibrant cultural tapestry of West Bengal. Raised in a lower-middle-class Brahmin family, with her father, Somnath, dedicatedly working for the Indian Railways and her mother, Lakshmi, adeptly managing their home, Swathi’s early life was profoundly influenced by a rich heritage of traditional art. This environment fostered in her a deep-seated appreciation for cultural legacy, shaping her future endeavours in the world of classical dance.

Her foray into dance began at just 11 with Lambadi, a popular Indian folk dance. This early start was a mere prelude to her profound love for dance, which took root under the tutelage of Sumathi Kaushal in Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam. Life threw a curveball when Swathi’s father passed away in 1981, thrusting her into the role of the family’s primary breadwinner at just 16. In response, she formed her own orchestra, proving her mettle both as an artist and as a resilient caretaker of her family.

Swathi’s artistic journey is deeply intertwined with her academic pursuits. Her Master’s degree in Kuchipudi from the Central University of Hyderabad and subsequent Master of Philosophy in English Literature from Osmania University reflect her commitment to mastering both the dance form and broader academic concepts. This blend of academic rigor and artistic dedication has molded Swathi into a multifaceted cultural ambassador. Her deep understanding of Kuchipudi’s intricate nuances, coupled with her academic insights, has enriched her role as a guardian of this ancient art form.

The inception of Sampradaayam on August 15, 2015, marked a significant chapter in the history of Kuchipudi. Spanning a generous 11 acres provided by the Government of Andhra Pradesh, this cultural hub was envisioned as a tribute to the revered Kalakshetra in Chennai, founded by Smt. Rukmini Devi Arundale. Sampradaayam is more than just a center for learning; it embodies the traditional Gurukula system of education, where the guru (teacher) and sishya (student) live and learn together, preserving the essence of ancient educational practices. At Sampradaayam, Kuchipudi is taught not merely as a skill but as a way of life, deeply integrated into the students’ daily experiences.

Swathi’s vision for Sampradaayam was clear from the outset: to establish a sanctuary where traditional Indian arts could flourish undisturbed by the modern world. Under her leadership, the institution’s mission focuses on the triad of protecting, preserving, and promoting Kuchipudi dance. This mission transcends mere instruction; it aims to cultivate a profound appreciation and understanding of the cultural and historical significance of the art form.

The daily routine at Sampradaayam begins with the serene sounds of nature—birds chirping and cows grazing—which sets a tranquil tone for the day. This natural setting is integral to the Gurukula style, which Swathi believes is essential for fostering a disciplined, focused, and holistic approach to learning. The Trust’s commitment to education is evident in its comprehensive curriculum, which balances theoretical knowledge with practical training. Students at Sampradaayam are not just trained in dance; they are groomed to become cultural ambassadors, well-versed in the rich traditions of Kuchipudi and Indian classical arts.

Swathi’s dedication to Kuchipudi extends beyond the walls of Sampradaayam. In the 1990s, she founded Nritya Bharathi in Hyderabad, a dance academy dedicated to training young dancers. This initiative laid the groundwork for what would eventually become Sampradaayam, expanding her vision to a larger scale. Nritya Bharathi offers a range of courses designed to accommodate various levels of expertise in Kuchipudi, from beginners to advanced students. The rigorous selection process ensures that only the most passionate and talented individuals are chosen to join the Gurukula, where they receive residential facilities, including food and accommodation, on campus.

Swathi’s impact as a teacher is profound. Her students are trained to understand the deeper meanings behind every mudra (gesture) and expression, making their performances a true reflection of their inner understanding and emotional connection to the art form. Her unique teaching approach has been instrumental in producing accomplished dancers who represent Sampradaayam at national and international forums. This success underscores Swathi’s ability to inspire and nurture talent, ensuring that Kuchipudi continues to thrive and evolve.

Sampradaayam is governed by a distinguished Board of Trustees, including notable figures such as the District Collector of Srikakulam, the Principal Secretary of Revenue (Endowments) of Andhra Pradesh, and the Executive Officer of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). These leaders bring extensive experience and a deep commitment to preserving India’s cultural heritage, providing a robust foundation for the institution’s growth. The Trust also includes esteemed members such as the Vice-Chancellor of JNTU Kakinada and the Director of the Department of Language and Culture, ensuring a well-rounded governance structure that integrates administrative expertise with cultural stewardship.

Swathi’s approach to Kuchipudi is both traditional and innovative. While deeply respecting the roots of the dance form, she is also open to exploring new themes and narratives in her performances. Her ballet “Vatsayana Kamasutra,” based on the Hindu literature on erotic love by Vātsyāyana, exemplifies this bold approach. The performance, which explored themes of sringara (erotic love), received mixed reactions, with some praising it for its innovative portrayal and others criticizing it for challenging conservative norms. This boldness sets Swathi apart as a performer and teacher; she is unafraid to push boundaries and explore the full spectrum of human emotions through her art.

The Sampradaayam Cultural Trust is a dynamic cultural hub, organizing a diverse array of festivals and events throughout the year to celebrate and promote Indian arts. Festivals such as Siddhendra Jayanthi, Vaggeyakara Festival, and Karthika Kala Mahotsavam are vibrant celebrations of India’s rich cultural heritage. They offer students not only a stage to showcase their talents but also a platform to gain invaluable performance experience. This commitment to fostering talent is exemplified by the Trust’s upcoming international engagement, where students will perform “Darupadi” and “Kamasutra” in the United Kingdom from September 10 to October 15, 2024, bringing their artistry to a global audience.

Swathi’s influence extends beyond Sampradaayam. She has served as a member of the Central Board of Film Certification and the Central Audition Board for Kuchipudi dance, playing a key role in shaping cultural policies and standards at the national level. As the principal of the College of Music and Dance in Hyderabad, she has continued to mentor and inspire young artists, ensuring that her vast knowledge and passion for dance are passed on to the next generation.

Her contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades. In 2006, Swathi was awarded the Kala Ratna by the government of united Andhra Pradesh, a prestigious honour acknowledging her outstanding contributions to Kuchipudi dance. This award is a testament to her dedication to preserving and promoting this ancient art form and underscores her role as a cultural guardian committed to ensuring that Kuchipudi remains vibrant and captivating.

Swathi Somanath’s journey from a small-town upbringing to becoming a celebrated dancer and cultural advocate is a testament to her passion, perseverance, and vision. Through her performances, teaching, and the establishment of cultural institutions like Sampradaayam, she has played a pivotal role in ensuring that Kuchipudi continues to thrive and inspire new generations of artists and audiences. The Sampradaayam Cultural Trust, under Swathi’s visionary leadership, represents a beacon of hope for the preservation and promotion of Kuchipudi dance. Its commitment to traditional Indian arts, holistic education, and cultural preservation makes it more than just an institution; it is a cultural movement. Swathi’s innovative approach, combined with her respect for tradition, ensures that the rich heritage of Kuchipudi will continue to inspire, educate, and transform for generations to come.

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