A visually captivating 'Trayi'

- Dr. Mohammed Rafee
Photo credit: Klapping Kaptures

February 8, 2026

If Guru Dr. Nataraja Ramakrishna had been present, he would have been immensely happy. Just the thought of it brought tears swirling in my eyes. The remarkable experimental work presented by young dance guru Nikitha deeply moved me. Presenting the classical traditions of Kuchipudi, Bharatanatyam, and Andhranatyam, and clearly revealing their unique features and subtle distinctions through performance, was truly rare and extraordinary.

Trayi

Under the title 'Trayi', an exceptional dance production was staged on the evening of February 1st at Hyderabad, Telangana Saraswata Parishat, under Nikitha's choreographic direction. The performance opened with a traditional Alarippu, visually establishing the opening styles of all three dance forms.

Invoking Goddess Saraswati, Bharatanatyam and Andhranatyam were presented together in a shared concert format, completely holding the audience spellbound. This was followed by the Tarangam segment featuring Kuchipudi and Andhranatyam. The production concluded with a Tillana, performed in all three styles, providing a grand finale.

Trayi

The performance was so rich that one could not decide where to look or whom to watch. Each dancer stood out equally well. Nikitha performed Andhranatyam, Sai Poojitha performed Kuchipudi and Archeshmati immersed herself in Bharatanatyam. Together, they revealed both the individuality and the differences of the three styles with great clarity and aesthetic depth.

'Trayi' is a powerful educational experience. In the Telugu states, when one thinks of learning dance, Kuchipudi is usually the first form that comes to mind. Today, it enjoys prominence, but three decades ago, people largely equated dance with Bharatanatyam, despite it being the classical dance of Tamil Nadu. Even today, Bharatanatyam continues to be widely learnt in the Telugu states. Andhranatyam, however, has a different journey. With a history spanning nearly three thousand years, the Majuvani, Darbar, and Kacheri dance traditions were studied, researched, and revived as Andhranatyam by Dr. Nataraja Ramakrishna. Throughout his life, he dedicated himself tirelessly to its growth and recognition.

Renowned gurus such as Kalakrishna, Suvarchala, Rama, and several others made sincere efforts to take the form forward. MA level university courses were also introduced. Yet, compared to Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam, Andhranatyam still lags far behind and has not yet received recognition from the central government.

It is not surprising, then, that even many dance teachers are unaware of the differences between these three styles. Typically, dancers remain immersed only in the form they learn. Another major weakness in the Telugu dance ecosystem is that many gurus are unwilling to watch or appreciate performances by other gurus, and often do not even allow their students to attend them. Only a few stand as exceptions.

Trayi

Against this backdrop, Nikitha's experimental presentation stands out from beginning to end, visually captivating and thoughtfully choreographed. The way the distinct qualities of the three styles were revealed simultaneously was especially commendable. Most importantly, the performance strongly asserted that Andhranatyam is in no way inferior, powerfully showcasing its richness and grandeur. This experiment deserves longevity. It should be staged on every platform and in every town.

Not only students of dance, but all practicing dancers must watch 'Trayi.' Though many fusion performances have been presented in the past, this production is fundamentally different from them. Special congratulations to Nikitha.

Bandi Ramakrishna, who once served Dr. Nataraja Ramakrishna, was present and extended financial support as encouragement. Renowned dance guru Pavan Kumar served as the commentator and offered insightful analysis. Representatives of Mana Events, Klapping Kaptures provided courteous support. Congratulations to everyone involved.

Dr. Mohammed Rafee is a senior journalist widely recognized in both Telugu states as an eminent cultural journalist. He has served as Sub-Editor at Andhra Jyoti, Chief Reporter at Vartha, Special Correspondent & Programming Head at HM TV, and for the past 13 years as Chief Editor of a leading cultural magazine. He has interviewed many legendary personalities across arts, literature, politics, and cinema, and has written extensively on cultural and social issues. He is regarded as a vital bridge between artistes and the government, advocating for artistes' welfare and cultural preservation.