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14 year
old raises over $2,000 for charities by performing classical Indian dance
Meena has been under the tutelage of her mother and dancer, Guru Padma Chebrolu from an early age and learned several dance styles at Cultural Centre of India in Symmes Township. Dance, music and art of both western and eastern styles have been part of Meena's whole life. She is a member of the ensemble group, Sycamore Singing Company, at her school and is an active choir member. She is also an accomplished piano player and has received many accolades for her accomplishments in English horseback riding. Meena says, "Working with five Indian classical musicians to prepare for a live performance has been a tremendous learning experience. Indian melodic and rhythmic system is very unique and complex and totally different from western classical music. I read many books on dance, music, art, mythology to prepare myself as a dancer. People generally think, if you know how to dance and get the technique, you are done. But in Indian classical dance it is very intellectual, analytical and in-depth. It could be overwhelming and it is a test of your dedication." Meena is a
straight A student who was awarded at several dance and Mathematics competitions.
A memorable performance of Meena's was at University Children's Hospital,
where Senator Mike Dewine was the guest of honor. Meena aspires to be a
Physician and help the community. In the pursuit of artistic excellence,
Meena plans to teach, perform and compete at the professional level in
classical Indian dance.
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Meena
Apurva who will be a freshman at Sycamore High School in the Fall of 2005
raised over $2,000 for the Greater Cincinnati United Cerebral Palsy and
Tsunami Charities of India. She presented a two hour solo performance of
Classical Indian dance on Saturday, July 16th 2005 in West Chester. Meena
says, "My goal was to perform at a professional level and be authentic.
I am thrilled my performance was so well received and this effort was a
benefit for the charities. Dance is a very powerful way to communicate
and entertain and cultural barriers can be overcome when the dancer presents
it from the soul."