As International Dance Day is observed worldwide, few stories embody the fusion of cultural preservation and global influence as profoundly as that of Hema Vanasarla. A Mechanical Engineer by qualification and a Kuchipudi exponent by passion, Vanasarla has seamlessly blended science and art into a singularly impactful journey. Trained in classical Indian dance from a young age, she explored several forms before dedicating herself to Kuchipudi under the guidance of esteemed gurus. 

Her artistry has captivated au diences through performances at prestigious venues, including a standout 35-minute solo at Hampi, as well as innovative choreographies integrating fire and potelements−demonstrating her ability to balance creativity with tradition. 

To preserve and promote this ancient art form, Vanasarla estab lished SVS Kala Nikethan, which began as a modest summer initiative and has since grown into a thriving institution. With three branches and over 500 students worldwide, the school has become a hub for nurturing talent and transmitting classical values across generations.

After relocating to the United States, she continued to mentor, choreograph and perform internationally, while the school’s operations remain active in India under the dedicated leadership of her trained students reflecting her success in creating a self-sustaining educational ecosystem. Her students have earned dance certifications, academic credits, and cultural quota placements for higher studies, while adult learners under her mentorship have revived their artistic as pirations, with many progressing to junior teaching roles. 

Vanasarla's commitment to in clusivity has also led her to train differently-abled students, extend ing Kuchipudi's reach and adapt ability. Parallel to her artistic pursuits, she remains active in the field of mechanical engineering in the U.S., while currently preparing to publish academic journals on dance therapy a field she is exploring as a medium for holistic devel opment.

Her remarkable contributions have earned her several accolades, including the Nandi Award, Lady Empowerment Award, Natya Mayuri Award, and Kalaratna Award. Through SVS Kala Nikethan, she has not only preserved      tradition but also generated          employment, empowered women, and built a platform that extends far  beyond the stage. 

Her journey is a powerful example of how a simple summer initiative can blossom into a global institution. From its humble beginnings as a summer camp to its current status as a respected center for Kuchipudi, Hema Vanasarla’s legacy proves that with dedication and vision, passion can become a force that transcends borders and shapes future generations.

− By Raaga