US varsity pioneers Indian fine arts teaching

India Post News Service
MILPITAS CA: It was a dream come true for many passionate dancers who migrated to the United States and were keen to have classical dance and music being taught here with huge commitment and fervor. The University of Silicon Andhra, Milpitas in California turned out to be the answer and dream coming true for many
The university had its first batch successfully graduated this year last month. One of the graduating students was Srivani Vokkarane, an accomplished artist trained in Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi. She trains students in Kuchipudi with an avid focus on both theoretical and practical aspects of the art form. She has completed her masters in Kuchipudi dance from the University

In a talk to this paper Srivsni said “I consider myself fortunate and truly blessed to be amongst the inaugural batch graduates. Born and brought up in Bangalore, practicing Kuchipudi has always given me a sense of immense pleasure. I was keen on pursuing academic activities related to Kuchipudi dance but there was no university that offered any academic courses in Kuchipudi. I almost felt that my doors were closed. A passion that almost died down got a fresh lease of life because of University of Silicon Andhra.”

University of Silicon Andhra is a pioneer institute in this county to offer programs in the field of Indian fine arts. Led by a visionary, Anand Kuchibotla and teamed up with diligent academic council and esteemed faculty contributed to the grand success on first convocation held on Jan 27, 2019 at Campbell Heritage Theatre, Campbell, California.
The inaugural batch graduation ceremony was a historic celebration. There were twelve masters, twelve diplomas, one certificate from the Kuchipudi department and one master, two diplomas, and three certificates from the Department of Carnatic Music degrees conferred upon passionate students who are the cultural ambassadors of this art form. The ceremony was synonymous with any American school.
The Convocation began with a majestic and grand academic procession followed by the traditional Indian Vedic chant and US National Anthem. It followed with a warm welcome greeting by President Anand Kuchibotla and Chairman Dr. Hanimireddy.
A remarkable and motivational speech by Dr. Prasad Kaipa was the highlight of the event. Reflecting upon his journey, he explained that ‘essence’ is how he rediscovered his roots. The students and members of the audience were enthralled by his inspirational words. The conferring of degrees was presented by Anand Kuchibotla and the presentation of graduates by Raju Chamarthi. The Convocation ended with the closing remarks by Deenababu.