Today we’d like to introduce you to Kalyani Veturi.
Hi Kalyani, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey with Kuchipudi began almost three decades ago, but the dance has been a part of me for as long as I can remember. As a child, I was drawn to the rhythm, the grace, and the stories told through movement — each step felt like poetry in motion. What started as simple curiosity soon became a lifelong devotion.
In India, I was fortunate to perform on many stages, learning from incredible gurus and experiencing the depth and discipline this art form demands. Each performance taught me something new — not just about dance, but about life, emotion, and the beauty of expression.
When I moved to the United States, I carried Kuchipudi with me in my heart. It became my way of staying connected to my roots and sharing a part of India’s cultural soul with new audiences. Over time, I grew not just as a performer but also as a choreographer and teacher, discovering new ways to blend tradition with creativity.
Kuchipudi, to me, is multifaceted — it’s music, rhythm, and expression coming together to touch hearts and convey deeper truths. Every time I dance, I feel a connection that transcends words; it’s as if I am both the storyteller and the story.
Founding Sree Mayuri Dance Academy – Center for Indian Dances was my dream come true. Through this academy, I strive to pass on the legacy of Kuchipudi to future generations while encouraging exploration and innovation within its classical framework. I want my students — and my community — to feel the same joy, discipline, and emotional power that this art form has given me.
After all these years, my journey with Kuchipudi continues to evolve. It’s more than just a dance — it’s my language, my meditation, and my way of celebrating life.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Of course, any field you choose comes with its own challenges. The journey to reach a certain level is never smooth for anyone — some face financial struggles, some health issues, and others have personal obstacles along the way.
For me, I consider myself fortunate to have parents who valued and encouraged classical art forms, even though we had financial challenges while I was growing up. There were times when I had to pause my dance to focus on studies, because back then, we were always told that academics would give us a more stable career, while the arts were seen only as extracurricular.
I completed my master’s degree in Computer Science, but my heart was always with dance. Once my studies were done, I returned to Kuchipudi and started performing again. After marriage, I moved to the United States, where I was blessed with a very supportive husband and two wonderful children. With their love and encouragement, I’ve been able to continue living my dream through dance.
Dance is not just something I do; it’s a part of who I am. Every challenge — financial, physical, or emotional — has made my bond with Kuchipudi even stronger. It reminds me every day that true art comes not from perfection, but from perseverance and love for what you do.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a full time dance teacher/ performing artist. I am an Indian classical dance practitioner of Kuchipudi dance style. I am most proud of spreading the rich Indian heritage and the beautiful artform Kuchipudi , which is very different from other Indian dances. I am proud to keep this dance tradition alive for next generation and pass to them as much as I got it from my gurus.
As we see there is lot of things changing rapidly , but this art form and its beauty I am trying my best to preserve and create unique choreographies with out diluting or compromising it’s authenticity, which makes me stand out.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
Our city is very diverse , inclusive and a multicultural place.
Balancing our own cultural identity with adapting to a new environment can be both rewarding and challenging.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sreemayuri.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sreemayuridanceacademy?igsh=MTlxODllNHh2eTUyZw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AXYrJGVNp/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/kalyaniveturi?igsh=cGZnc3YzYm5zc2Fo&utm_source=qr
