Dr. Vandana Supriya Kasaravalli: Championing Odissi and Social Change Through the Art of Dance
From Graceful Performances to Empowering Communities: The Unstoppable Journey of a Classical Dance Virtuoso
In the realm of classical dance, few names shine as brightly as Dr. Vandana Supriya Kasaravalli, a remarkable artist and visionary whose contributions to the art of Odissi have not only captivated audiences but also transformed lives. Vandana is not just known for her enchanting performances but for her deep commitment to the social impact of the arts, particularly her work with marginalized communities. As the founder of the Anandi Arts Foundation and Anandi School of Dance, her journey is a testament to how art, when combined with purpose, can change the world.
Vandana’s story is one of passion, dedication, and a life-long commitment to sharing the beauty of Odissi—an ancient Indian classical dance form—while also using it as a vehicle to empower the underprivileged. With her vision, she has brought joy, confidence, and opportunities to those who otherwise might never have encountered the transformative power of dance.
A Journey of Artistic Awakening
Born on June 9, 1986, in Bangalore, Vandana Supriya Kasaravalli grew up in a family where the arts were always a part of daily life. Her parents, Yashoda and Balraj, were supportive of her artistic inclinations, encouraging her to explore her creative talents from a very young age. In her early childhood, Vandana’s exposure to dance, music, and rhythm became the foundation of her artistic identity.
She attended the Sita School, a unique institution where learning was based on hands-on experience and interaction with nature, rather than just conventional classroom education. This early exposure to the world of the performing arts was crucial in shaping her lifelong connection to dance and music.
At the age of seven, Vandana first encountered Odissi, an ancient classical dance form known for its graceful yet expressive movements. It was love at first sight, and she decided to dedicate herself to this art form. However, her artistic path wasn’t a simple one. It was defined by serendipity and a series of life-changing encounters that led her to study under some of the best gurus in the field.
Training and Growth: The Making of an Odissi Soloist
Vandana’s professional training took a major leap when she discovered Nrityagram, the renowned dance Gurukul located in Bangalore. The founder of Nrityagram, Protima Bedi, had established a space where classical dance was taught as a holistic lifestyle—where technique, spirituality, and art converged into a unified experience. It was at Nrityagram that Vandana began to delve deeply into the nuances of Odissi, transforming her from a passionate enthusiast into a refined artist.
At the same time, Vandana pursued an undergraduate degree in Psychology, Economics, and Sociology from Mount Carmel College, yet her heart remained firmly with dance. It was through her training at Nrityagram that she honed her understanding of bhava—the emotional expression that makes classical dance such a profound experience. This would go on to be one of her key strengths as a performer.
As her artistry developed, Vandana continued her journey at the Natya Institute of Kathak and Choreography, where she completed her Diploma in Dance Choreography. Here, under the tutelage of Dr. Maya Rao and Madhu Natraj, she expanded her knowledge of choreography and gained valuable insights into the intricate art of dance composition.
The Birth of the Anandi Arts Foundation: Giving Back to Society
In 2013, driven by her desire to give back to the art form that had shaped her, Vandana established the Anandi School of Dance in Bangalore. Her vision was clear: to create a space where children and adults alike could learn and practice Odissi, appreciating not just the technique but the emotional depth of the dance. The school quickly became a thriving community of learners, offering training grounded in the tradition and discipline of Odissi while allowing students to express their individual creativity.
However, it was in 2016 that Vandana’s true social vision came to life with the founding of the Anandi Arts Foundation. The mission of the foundation was clear: to use the arts, particularly dance, as a transformative tool for social good. The foundation’s work focuses on empowering young people, particularly from marginalized backgrounds, through access to high-quality dance education.
One of the foundation’s most notable achievements has been its initiative to provide free dance training to children from underprivileged schools in Bangalore, particularly at a government school in RMV 2nd Stage. Over 150 children now receive training in Odissi, a unique and enriching experience that has had a profound impact on their lives.
Through the foundation’s annual festivals, ASMI and BHAAVA, young dancers have had the opportunity to perform alongside established artists, boosting their confidence and inspiring them to pursue careers in the arts. These festivals not only promote the beauty of Odissi but also emphasize the importance of community and cultural exchange.
A Soloist with a Purpose
While her work with the foundation is transformative, Vandana continues to thrive as a performer. Odissi solo performances have become her trademark, and she has gained recognition as one of the leading soloists in the country. Her performances are marked by their expressive storytelling, graceful technique, and a deep connection to the emotional essence of each piece she performs.
Vandana’s dedication to emotionally-driven dance has made her a standout artist in the classical dance community. Her commitment to expressing not just the physical but also the spiritual and emotional aspects of Odissi has earned her a loyal following of admirers who appreciate the depth she brings to the stage.
Family: Roots of Support and Inspiration
Vandana’s journey as an artist is also supported by a strong and loving family. She married Apurva Kasaravalli, a prominent filmmaker, in 2017. Apurva is the son of Padma Shri Girish Kasaravalli, one of India’s most esteemed filmmakers, and Vandana’s marriage into the Kasaravalli family brought with it a legacy of artistic brilliance and social commitment.
Vandana and Apurva are parents to a son, Aarav Neal Kasaravalli, and their family embodies a spirit of creativity, culture, and community service. As a daughter-in-law of Girish Kasaravalli, Vandana is deeply connected to a rich tradition of artistic expression, and this legacy continues to inspire her work.
A Lasting Legacy of Dance and Empowerment
Today, Dr. Vandana Supriya Kasaravalli is celebrated not only as a distinguished Odissi soloist but also as a cultural leader and community advocate. Through the Anandi Arts Foundation and the Anandi School of Dance, she continues to impact the lives of countless children and aspiring artists. Her mission to use dance as a tool for social change and artistic expression has helped uplift communities and provided countless opportunities for young talent to shine.
Dr. Vandana Kasaravalli's work transcends the stage—she is a force of transformation, a conduit of culture, and a champion of empowerment. Her story is one of resilience, dedication, and an unwavering belief in the power of the arts to heal, inspire, and bring about social change.
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