Sudha Chandran

🪔 About

Sudha Chandran is a celebrated Indian Bharatanatyam and Kathak dancer, and an accomplished actress, renowned for her inspiring journey of resilience. Born on September 21, 1965, in Mumbai, India, she developed a passion for Bharatanatyam at a young age, beginning her training at Kala Sadan, Mumbai, at the age of five. By the age of 17, she had already performed in 75 stage shows, earning recognition for her graceful dancing. In May 1981, at the age of 16, Chandran's life took a tragic turn when she was involved in a road accident in Tamil Nadu. Due to medical complications, her right leg had to be amputated. This devastating event could have ended her dance career, but with unwavering determination and the support of her family, she was fitted with a prosthetic 'Jaipur Foot'. After a two-year hiatus, Chandran made a remarkable comeback to the stage, performing Bharatanatyam again on January 28, 1984, at the South India Welfare Society in Mumbai. Her extraordinary story of courage and perseverance gained widespread attention, leading to a Telugu film titled 'Mayuri' (1984), based on her life, in which she played herself. The film was later remade in Hindi as 'Naache Mayuri' (1986). Chandran received the National Film Award – Special Jury Award for her performance in 'Mayuri'. Beyond her dance performances, she has built a successful career in Indian film and television, starring in numerous productions. She also founded the Natya Mayuri Sudha Chandran Dance Academy in Mumbai in 2005, which offers classes in Bharatanatyam and Kathak. Awards & Honours: Nritya Mayuri, Nav Jyoti, National Film Award – Special Jury Award (1986), Indian Television Academy Award for Best Actress in a negative role (2005), Honorary Doctorate.