On Dec 15th, 2024, Sankara Nethralaya USA, Delaware chapter with Salangai School of Performing arts organized a remarkable Bharatanatyam dance musical event ‘Andal – a dance of devotion’ in Delaware, with the goal of spreading awareness and raising funds for a noble cause that will restore the vision of underserved patients.
The evening began with a warm welcome note delivered by Piram Manickavasagam, Chapter Vice President of Sankara Nethralaya USA, setting the tone for a cultural and meaningful program. This was followed by a captivating session of classical singing and a series of mesmerizing group Bharatanatyam performances that enthralled the audience for the first hour.
Before the Andal Musical Bharatanatyam Dance Musical commenced, Smt. Banu Ramakrishnan, Treasurer of Sankara Nethralaya USA, addressed the audience. She eloquently shared the mission and vision of Sankara Nethralaya, tracing its origins back to the vision of its founder, Dr. S.S. Badrinath.
She highlighted the contributions of the current Sankara Nethralaya USA board and showcased the impactful Mobile Eye Surgical Unit, emphasizing its effectiveness in providing accessible eye care to underserved regions. Smt. Banu underscored the profound importance of giving the gift of eyesight—a transformative act that not only changes an individual’s life but also uplifts their family and contributes positively to society as a whole.
The main program began with a welcome note to the Andal Bharatanatyam Dance Musical by Natyacharya Smt. Indhumadhi Gopalakrishnan, the founder and artistic director of the Salangai School of Performing Arts. She introduced the professional Harikatha artist- Veena Mohan, who vividly narrated the story and context of each scene before every performance, enriching the audience’s experience.
The dance production depicted the life and divine devotion of Goddess Andal, showcasing her unwavering love for Lord Vishnu and her timeless Thiruppavai verses. The program featured more than 40 talented performers ranging in age from 5 to 21 years, with Acharya Smt. Indhumadhi Gopalakrishnan herself joined the performances, adding a special touch to the presentation.
A special mention goes to Veena Mohan, whose unwavering support behind the scenes significantly contributed to the success of the event. This 3-hour long Bharatanatyam dance musical took the audience to the divine world of Andal.
This dance musical production, an original creation by Natyacharya Rathna Smt. Indhumadhi Gopalakrishnan, was brought to life through her extraordinary vision, seamlessly blending her unique artistry, storytelling, and spiritual depth.
The event was well attended, with about 500 people in the audience, creating an atmosphere of support and appreciation for both the cultural performances and Sankara Nethralaya's cause. The event successfully raised a significant amount of donations and brought greater awareness to the mission and services of Sankara Nethralaya, highlighting the importance of restoring vision and transforming lives.
Outside the auditorium, five sponsor tables were set up, featuring Samatva Wealth Management, NY Life Insurance, Avatar Vision Fund, SK Jewellers, and Tasty Bites. Other sponsors who supported the event included Namasthe India, Titlee Fashions, Griffin College London, Gaana Amrutha School of Music, British Swim School, and VCART Express.
The performances concluded with a heartfelt note from Smt. Banu Ramakrishnan, reiterating the importance of Sankara Nethralaya's mission and appreciating all the participants and recognizing and awarding plaque to Acharya Smt.Indhumadhi Gopalakrishnan.
This event would not have been possible without the significant contributions of key team members, including Shiva Kodali, Lakshmi Aremenda, Anitha Narayanaswamy, Praveen Ponnuswamy, Naveen Ghanta, Himateja Mikkilineni, Karthik Sonnia and Nishalini Sonnia, Maheswari Muthu, Shanmuga Sundar Karthikeyan, Vani, Rajeev, Shabber and Anusha. Their dedication and support played a vital role in ensuring the program’s success.
Special thanks are due to the Sankara Nethralaya USA team: President Bala Reddy Indurti for encouraging and promoting the event in TV channels and social media, EVP Moorthy Rekapalli for logistics, Secretary Shyam Appali for making a promo video, and Theagarajan & Deena Dayalan for technical help.
In the heartfelt thank-you note delivered by Piram Manickavasagam and Indhumadhi Gopalakrishnan, they expressed their gratitude to all sponsors, donors, contributors, volunteers, youth volunteers, Fotolaya team and Temple administration who made the event possible.
A special mention was given to their 13-year-old son, Akshath Piram, who spent most of his Thanksgiving vacation choreographing dances, teaching over 20 songs, and still practicing and performing his parts exceptionally well. They also acknowledged their younger son, Yashwath Piram, who, at just 7 years old, showcased his talent through a beautiful solo performance.
If you like to support the noble cause and more details about the organization, please visit website: www.SankaraNethralayaUSA.org
Please visit Sankara Nethralaya USA TV channel for frequent updates: https://www.youtube.com/@SNUSA2024
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