Thiripurasundari Cumarasamy

🪔 About

Shrimathy Thiripurasundari Cumarasamy Yoganantham is a renowned figure in Indian classical dance, particularly Bharatanatyam, known for her profound contributions to the Vazhuvoor style. Born into a family deeply rooted in arts, she is the daughter of W.M. Cumarasamy of Jaffna, who founded the cultural academy Kalaimanram. Thiripurasundari received her foundational training in Bharatanatyam under the tutelage of the legendary "Natya Kalakesari," "Isai Perarignar," and "Padmashri" Vazhuvoor B. Ramaiah Pillai. She holds the distinction of being the first student from Jaffna, Sri Lanka, to train under this esteemed guru, a testament to her pioneering spirit and dedication to the art form. As the Principal and chief Instructress in Bharatanatyam at Kalaimanram, Thiripurasundari Cumarasamy Yoganantham played a pivotal role in nurturing generations of dancers. The academy, initially inaugurated by her guru in Jaffna on October 21, 1958, operated there until 1986. Following this, Kalaimanram was re-established in Colombo in 1987, continuing its significant work in promoting Bharatanatyam and Carnatic vocal music. Her teaching legacy is carried forward by her daughters, Shrimathy Nandini Suthahar and Radhini Sivadharan, both accomplished dancers and teachers. Nandini Suthahar, who also trained under her mother, went on to found Kalaimanram UK, extending the family's artistic heritage internationally. Radhini Sivadharan also trained under her mother at Kalaimanram, had her Arangetram in Colombo in 1999, and continues to teach at Kalaimanram UK. Thiripurasundari Cumarasamy Yoganantham has been honored with the title "Kalabhushanam" for her profound contributions to the field of classical dance. Her dedication has ensured the preservation and propagation of the Vazhuvoor style of Bharatanatyam through her academy and her disciples. Awards & Honours: Kalabhushanam.