Well-known Kuchipudi dancer and recipient of Padma Shri and numerous other awards, Sobha Naidu, in her 60s, passed away in Hyderabad on October 14, 2020. Her major achievements include choreography and presentation of Ballets Vipranarayana, Kalyana Srinivasam, and many others, in which she was the main protagonist and portrayed various roles like Satyabhama, Devadevaki, Padmavathi, Mohini, Sai Baba, and Goddess Parvati, which won her great appreciation. Her performances have also won accolades overseas, where she presented a series of performances, such as in the US and the UK besides others. She has received a number of awards from the Andhra Pradesh government and several reputed organisations.
Kuchipudi is one of the eight major Indian classical dances, and originated in a village in the state of Andhra Pradesh, Kuchipudi. It developed as a religious art linked to travelling bards, temples, and spiritual beliefs, like all major classical dances of India. This dance form largely developed as a Hindu god Krishna-oriented Vaishnavism tradition, and is most closely related to Bhagavata Mela. Traditionally, it was performed by all male troupe. The typical musical instruments in Kuchipudi are mridangam, cymbals, veena, flute, and tambura.
Courtesy: ndtv.com