With Blessings of the Divine
Rangapravesam
A Kuchipudi Debut Performance
Laasya Barla
You Are Cordially Invited
Event Details
With the divine blessings and under the dedicated tutelage of Smt. Sailaja Chaudhary Tummala, Laasya Barla presents her Rangapravesam — the first formal step onto the sacred stage, marking eleven years of devotion, discipline, and dedication to the divine art of Kuchipudi.
Date
Sunday, 07th June 2026
Time
Seating at 2:30 PM · Show at 3:00 PM
Venue
Keefe Regional Technical School Auditorium, 750 Winter Street, Framingham, MA 01702
Live Stream
Link Coming Soon
On Stage With Her
Orchestra & Technical Team
Nattuvangam
Smt. Sailaja Chaudhary Tummala
Vocalist
Smt. Neela Ramanuja
Flute
Sri Krishna Prasad
Mrudangam
Sri Pramath Kiran
Percussion
Sri Pranavdath Shamdath
Audio & Lighting
Sri Raja Sekhar Tummala
Photography & Videography
Sri Surendar Rao Madadi
The Classical Dance of Andhra Pradesh
Kuchipudi
“One of the eight classical dance forms of India — a living confluence of devotion, drama, and sublime beauty.”
Kuchipudi is one of the major classical dance forms of India, originating from Andhra Pradesh. Renowned for its graceful movements, intricate footwork, and deeply emotive storytelling drawn from ancient scriptures and epics, it is a living tradition of devotion and discipline passed from Guru to disciple.
Origins
Born in a Village
Kuchipudi takes its name from the village of Kuchipudi (Kuchilapuri) in Krishna district, Andhra Pradesh. In the 17th century, saint-poet Siddhendra Yogi composed the Bhama Kalapam — a devotional dance-drama — and trained the Brahmin families of the village to perform it as a sacred offering to Lord Venkateswara at Tirupati. That singular act of devotion crystallised an art form that endures to this day.
The Guru-Shishya Tradition
A Sacred Bond
For generations, Kuchipudi was passed down through the Bhagavatulu families of the village — a living lineage transmitted not through books but through direct apprenticeship. The Guru-Shishya parampara demands years of disciplined training: the student surrenders to the teacher, and the teacher pours lifetimes of wisdom into the student. A Rangapravesam — literally “entry onto the stage” — marks the moment a shishya is deemed ready to perform publicly for the first time.
The Art Form
Nritta · Nritya · Natya
Kuchipudi is rooted in the Natyashastra, the ancient Sanskrit treatise on performing arts. It fuses Nritta (pure rhythmic dance), Nritya (expressive storytelling through gesture and glance), and Natya (dramatic enactment). Its hallmarks include swift, intricate footwork, fluid sculptural postures drawn from temple iconography, and deeply emotive abhinaya. The celebrated Tarangam — dancing atop a brass plate while balancing a pot of water on the head — is unique to this tradition.
The Sacred Sequence
Program
Gajavadana Beduve
Invocatory Dance
A traditional composition in praise of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the harbinger of auspicious beginnings. This vibrant piece depicts the devotee's heartfelt invocation to Gajavadana, seeking his blessings for success, wisdom, and a smooth journey ahead. Through graceful movements and expressive storytelling, the dancer brings to life the divine attributes and playful charm of Lord Ganesha.
Mamavathu Sri Saraswati
Saraswati Vandanam
A soulful composition in praise of Goddess Saraswati, the embodiment of knowledge, music, and the arts. This piece is a heartfelt invocation seeking her blessings for wisdom, clarity of thought, and mastery in artistic expression. The choreography beautifully weaves together grace and devotion, highlighting the serene and compassionate nature of the goddess. Through expressive abhinaya and rhythmic movements, the dancer depicts Saraswati seated on the white lotus, holding the veena, symbolizing harmony and the pursuit of learning. This item sets up a contemplative and auspicious tone, celebrating the divine source of all creativity and knowledge.
Prahlada Shabdam
Shabdam
A vibrant and expressive dance piece that narrates the story of the young devotee Prahlada and his unwavering devotion to Lord Vishnu. Despite facing severe trials from his father, the demon king Hiranyakashipu, Prahlada's steadfast faith remains unshaken. This composition beautifully captures the triumph of devotion over arrogance and evil. Through dynamic movements and expressive abhinaya, the dancer brings to life the dramatic episodes of Prahlada's journey, culminating in the appearance of Lord Narasimha, symbolizing divine protection and the victory of righteousness.
Bhavayami Raghuramam
Devotional Composition
A timeless and devotional composition that extols the virtues of Lord Rama, the epitome of righteousness and virtue. This piece beautifully traces the journey of Rama through key episodes of the Ramayana, highlighting his noble character, compassion, and unwavering commitment to dharma.
Through expressive abhinaya and graceful movements, the dancer portrays significant moments such as Rama's childhood, his marriage to Sita, exile to the forest, the valorous battle against Ravana, and his triumphant return to Ayodhya. The choreography seamlessly blends storytelling with rhythmic patterns, bringing depth and emotion to each episode.
This composition serves as a meditative offering, allowing the dancer to embody devotion and reverence while narrating the inspiring saga of Lord Rama, leaving the audience immersed in a sense of peace and spiritual upliftment.
Swagatham Krishna
Devotional Composition
A lively and joyous composition that extends a heartfelt welcome to Lord Krishna, the enchanting flute player and beloved of all. This piece beautifully portrays the divine charm and playful nature of Krishna, whose presence fills the surroundings with bliss and devotion. The lyrics describe the devotee's eagerness and reverence in receiving the Lord, celebrating his grace, compassion, and mischievous deeds.
Through expressive abhinaya and intricate rhythmic movements, the dancer brings Krishna's leelas — his playful interactions with the Gopikas, his melodious flute, and his captivating persona. The choreography blends nritta (pure dance) and abhinaya (expression), creating a vibrant and engaging presentation. This item radiates joy and devotion, drawing the audience into a festive and spiritually uplifting experience.
Shiva Shiva Bhava Bhava Sharanam
Devotional Composition
A powerful and devotional composition dedicated to Lord Shiva, the cosmic dancer and embodiment of transformation. This piece is a fervent plea seeking refuge in Shiva, celebrating his boundless grace, strength, and compassion. The lyrics resonate with surrender and devotion, invoking the Lord as the ultimate protector and liberator.
Through dynamic movements and expressive abhinaya, the dancer portrays the majestic and multifaceted nature of Shiva — his tandava (cosmic dance), his serene ascetic form, and his role as the destroyer of ignorance. The choreography blends vigorous rhythmic sequences with moments of deep emotion, creating a striking contrast that reflects Shiva's divine energy. This item leaves the audience with a sense of awe, devotion, and spiritual elevation.
Sanchaara
The Centerpiece
A captivating and expressive composition that explores the beauty of movement and the depth of emotional expression in Kuchipudi. This piece weaves together rhythmic footwork and nuanced abhinaya, allowing the dancer to traverse a range of moods and sentiments. Through elegant transitions and dynamic patterns, Sanchaara showcases the dancer's versatility, balancing technical precision with expressive storytelling.
The choreography highlights the seamless flow of nritta (pure dance) and abhinaya (expression), creating a rich visual experience. This item serves as a vibrant exploration of movement and artistry, reflecting the dancer's command over rhythm, grace, and emotive expression, making it a delightful and engaging presentation for the audience.
Vachenu Alamelumanga
Devotional Expression
A melodious and expressive composition that celebrates the divine beauty and grace of Goddess Alamelumanga, the consort of Lord Venkateswara. This piece portrays the goddess as she arrives in all her splendor, adorned with exquisite ornaments and radiating compassion and charm. The lyrics vividly describe her elegance, gentle demeanor, and benevolent nature.
Through delicate abhinaya and fluid movements, the dancer brings to life the divine feminine, capturing the goddess's compassion, beauty, and maternal grace. The choreography emphasizes subtle expressions and lyrical flow, allowing the dancer to convey devotion and reverence with poise. This item creates a serene and devotional atmosphere, immersing the audience in the divine presence of the goddess.
Chittaja Guruda — Mangalaam
Mangalaam
A devotional hymn composed by the saint-poet Tallapaka Annamacharya in honor of Lord Venkateswara. The title itself is a profound Sanskrit compound where "Chittaja" refers to Manmatha (the god of love, born of the mind) and "Guruda" signifies a supreme master or teacher; combined, it identifies the Lord as the one who surpasses even the god of love in beauty and majesty. The song serves as a vivid poetic portrait, describing the Lord's enchanting form, His golden garments, and the presence of Goddess Alamelu Manga upon His chest. Ultimately, the composition is a prayer of total surrender and auspiciousness (Mangalam), praising the Lord not just as a divine figure of immense aesthetic beauty, but as the ultimate spiritual guide and refuge for all devotees.
* Program sequence subject to change at the discretion of the Guru
The Teacher
The Guru
Smt. Sailaja Chaudhary Tummala
Director, Sri Kuchipudi Natyalaya — Greater Boston
Smt. Sailaja Chaudhary Tummala is a highly recognized and accomplished dancer. She is the director of Sri Kuchipudi Natyalaya in the Greater Boston area. She started learning dance at a very young age. As a child she was inspired by her guru Padmashree Dr. Shobha Naidu to excel in this art form. Smt. Sailaja holds a master's degree in Kuchipudi classical dance from the Telugu University of Hyderabad. She started her teaching career in dance at the Kuchipudi Dance Academy. There she received the Natya Visharada award and a scholarship from the Government of India to advance her training in Kuchipudi dance. She is a recipient of the prestigious title 'Singar-Mani' conferred by Sur Singar Samsad. Smt. Sailaja has composed, trained and performed many solo and ballets with her students and motivates them to use their dance skills to help others with the motto, "Dance for a Cause". She was also awarded the "Performing Arts and Social Service" award by TAGB for her generous contributions to the community. Smt. Sailaja established Sri Kuchipudi Natyalaya to offer high quality dance training programs to work with students in improving technical and performing skills. She has inspired her students to foster their passion for dance and to always push themselves to achieve greater levels of excellence.
24+ Years
Teaching Experience
34+ Years
Performance Experience
Dr. Sobha Naidu, Padma Shri
Trained Under
Singar Mani — Sur Singar Samsad
Honour
The Dancer
The Shishya
Laasya Barla
Laasya Barla is a devoted Kuchipudi dancer who has trained under the guidance of Smt. Sailaja Chaudary for the past 12 years. What began as disciplined practice has blossomed into a profound and enduring love for this classical art form, one shaped by countless rehearsals, rich storytelling, and the joy of bringing tradition to life. Over the years, she has performed in numerous dance ballets and solo pieces, each one allowing her to merge technical mastery with expressive artistry. She has also earned an advanced diploma in Kuchipudi dance from Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam, a milestone that reflects her commitment to honoring and advancing this heritage.
Laasya is a graduating senior at Littleton High School and will be attending Bentley University to study Quantitative Economics. Alongside her academic pursuits, she has been an active leader and contributor to her school community. She has served as Vice President of her graduating class for the past three years and is a dedicated member of DECA, where she has earned multiple awards and qualified for both state and international levels. Beyond school, her curiosity and drive extend into her community, she has participated in research initiatives and was awarded a prestigious fellowship from the Massachusetts Historical Society. As she celebrates this important milestone in her Kuchipudi journey, Laasya views her Rangapravesam as the start to a lifelong journey of growth, creativity, and connection to the classical art form.