Sreedevi Unni

🪔 About

Sreedevi Unni is a celebrated Indian classical dancer, choreographer, guru, and actress, primarily renowned for her contributions to Mohiniyattam, the classical dance form of Kerala. Born in Kozhikode, Kerala, she hails from a traditional Nair family. Unni began her dance training at an early age, learning various forms including Bharatanatyam, Kathakali, and Thiruvathirakali, before dedicating herself to Mohiniyattam. She was groomed by eminent gurus such as Balakrishnan Nair, Kelappan, Kalamandalam Chandrika, and Kalyanikutty. With a career spanning over four decades, Sreedevi Unni has been instrumental in promoting and preserving Mohiniyattam. She founded the Nrityavedi dance academy in Bengaluru (Bangalore) in 1979, which was later renamed Monisha Arts Academy in 1995, in memory of her late daughter, actress Monisha Unni. Through her academy, she has nurtured numerous dancers and popularized Mohiniyattam in Karnataka, beyond its native Kerala, through innovative choreographies and teaching. Her choreographic works often incorporate the poetry of literary figures like Kuvempu and Purandara Dasa. She has performed at prestigious festivals including Dasara, Hampi, and Kadamba. Beyond her dance career, Sreedevi Unni is also a recognized actress in Malayalam cinema and television serials. She entered the film industry following the tragic death of her daughter Monisha in a car accident in 1992. She has appeared in several notable films such as "Oru Cherupunchiri" (2000), "Neelathamara" (2009), "7th Day" (2014), "Nirnayakam" (2015), and "Virus" (2019), often portraying crucial roles. Her dedication to both dance and acting underscores her significant influence in Kerala's cultural arts scene. Awards & Honours: Karnataka Kalashree (2002), Pravasi Kalashree, The Woman of Substance award (2013), Lifetime contribution award to Mohiniyattam (2013), Maharaja Swatitirunal Excellency Award (2017), Kalashree award.