“Kuchipudi Transcends Barriers With Grace And Storytelling”-Samaya Chauhan

Classical dancer Samaya Chauhan recently left audiences spellbound with her Rangapravesham at Kamani Auditorium, where she performed the soulful piece Saaso Ki Mala Simru Mai Tera Naam.

In a candid conversation with Loudest.in as part of Rising Star Series, Chauhan opened up about her journey in Kuchipudi, the challenges of preserving classical art forms, and her mission to inspire the next generation.

Discovering the Art of Kuchipudi

Samaya shared that her love for Kuchipudi began at an early age, thanks to her mother, a trained classical dancer who encouraged her to embrace the art. “I was introduced to Bharatnatyam first but fell in love with Kuchipudi. Our country is so rich in culture, and every form of dance has its unique beauty, but what ties them all together is discipline and hard work,” she said.

Making Tradition Relatable

When asked about bridging the gap between tradition and modern audiences, Samaya emphasized the universal appeal of grace and storytelling in dance. “Kuchipudi, with its abhinay (expressive storytelling) and music, transcends language barriers. Performing items like Saaso Ki Mala, set to a Hindi song, helps connect with diverse audiences while staying true to its essence,” she explained.

A Milestone Performance

Reflecting on her performance at Kamani Auditorium, Samaya expressed deep gratitude for her Gurus, Raja Reddy, Smt. Radha, and Smt. Kaushalya Reddy. “This performance was special because I got to present Saaso Ki Mala, a highly expressive piece usually performed later in a dancer’s career. It was an honor to perform under the guidance of my Gurus, who instilled resilience, discipline, and a deep love for the art,” she said.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Samaya acknowledged the responsibility of preserving classical dance and making it appealing to the younger generation. “It’s on us to continue this tradition and share it with friends across genres. Only by doing so can we ensure that our generation continues to appreciate and uphold these art forms,” she noted.

Blending Tradition with Impact

Through her initiative Dil for Dance, Samaya has expanded Kuchipudi’s reach to underprivileged girls, using dance as a tool for empowerment and mental well-being. “Seeing these girls learn, teach, and thrive through dance has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my journey,” she said.

Samaya Chauhan’s artistry and commitment to Kuchipudi are a testament to the timeless power of classical dance to inspire, connect, and uplift. With her dedication, she is ensuring that this cherished art form continues to flourish for generations to come.