Deepa Ganesh / Student / Artiste Performer / Philosophy / Recognitions Page 2

Deepa
Ganesh

Deepa Ganesh, Upasana’s Artistic Director, with more than 25 years of experience, has a strong foundation in bharatanatyam (South Indian classical dance), a keen ear for music, an impeccable sense of timing and a deep interest in Indian culture combined with a dedicated and meticulous approach, making her an excellent artiste and teacher.

Student

Deepa has studied under eminent gurus:
Bharatanatyam
with Padmashri Adayar K.Lakshman,
Abhinaya
with Padmabhushan Kalanidhi Narayanan,
nattuvangam from Kamala Rani of Kalakshetra
Carnatic vocal Rukmini Rajagopalan (South Indian classical music).

Artiste / Performer

Deepa first performed at the age of seven in 1979, the Year of Children. The Daily Mail introduced her in 1981 as, "Baby Deepa Excels." This heralded a series of performances in many well-established and new forums apart from other traditional occasions such as festivals and consecration ceremonies at temples. This was only expected as soon as Deepa was a rising star in Chennai, the epicenter of south Indian classical dance and music.Deepa’s shows were primarily solos though her experiences in dance-dramas were in her repertoire. In 1991, she embarked on a unique experiment of dancing to the tani aavartanam (solo) of the thavil(ancient Indian percussion instrument) maestro Valayapatti Subramanian. This brought an age-old tradition back to the stage with the confluence of Laya (rhythm) and abhinaya (expression).

Philosophy

By synthesizing different aspects of Indian art forms, Deepa extends holistic cultural development of her students, while at the same time affording them the opportunity to specialize in classical dance.
All my strengths, determination, perseverance, optimism, focus and confidence along with ultimate surrender to the Lord, is what this artform has blessed me with. I owe my gratitude to my teachers and elders who have generously showered me with the richness of this art and enveloped me in their grace, It is my prime duty to share this fortune with as many as possible.”


Recognitions Page 2