Mahamkali Surya Narayana Sarma

🪔 About

Mahankali Surya Narayana Sarma is a renowned Indian classical dance guru, performer, teacher, musician, choreographer, and institution head, primarily known for his profound contributions to Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam. Born in Kuchipudi, Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh, India, he inherited the art form, receiving his initial dance training as a hereditary practice from his ancestors. His esteemed gurus include his father, Sri Mahamkali Sathyanarayana Garu, Dr. Vempati China Sathyam, Kalaaprapoorna B.H.Y. Sarma (for Bharatanatyam), and his elder brother, Kalaanidhi Mahamkali Sreeramulu. He also pursued musical studies under his father, Mahamkali Sreeramulu, and Sri Y. Seetha Ramanjaneyaulu, and delved into Sanskrit and Telugu literature under Sri Varada Charya. He holds diplomas in both Kuchipudi Nrityam and Bharatanatyam (Visarada), obtained through Guru Sri B.H.Y. Sarma. Sarma commenced his professional career as a dance master in 1972. In 1975, he established the Thirumala Arts Academy and Sri Venkateswara Cultural Association in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, serving as their Founder and Director. Through these institutions, he has trained over 3500 students, both in India and internationally, guiding them through Diploma Examinations in Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam, with many achieving distinctions, merit marks, and gold medals. A prolific artist, Sarma has composed nearly 1200 classical dances, encompassing various forms such as Kouthas, Puja Nrityas, Jathiswarams, Swarajathis, Githas, Stuthies, Tarangas, and Thillanas. As a performer, he has presented numerous solo programs, including Dasavatharams, Swarajathi, and Sivathandava, and has acted in Yakshaganams, portraying diverse characters like Prahlada, Krishna, and Hiranyakasyapa. Notably, he performed for dignitaries such as Governor Bhimsen Sachar and Chief Minister Brahmananda Reddy at the tender age of nine. Beyond performing and teaching, Sarma has also directed dance sequences for Telugu movies, including “Aadade Aadi Shakthi Ayithe” and “Ide Mana Bharatham.” His expertise is recognized through his role as a judge for dance examinations and competitions at district, state, national, and international levels. In 1990, he served as the Assistant Director for the Shastriya Nritya Sandhana Shibir organized by the South Central Cultural Zone in Guntur. He is honored with the title "Kalaratna." Awards & Honours: Kalaratna.