Anandotsav 2026
A cultural festival of Joy
(Program Details below)
The Inspiration
Anandotsav—a beautiful blend of "Anand" (Joy) and "Utsav" (Festival)—is envisioned as a celebration that brings pure, collective joy to our community.
The seeds of this festival were sown from a deeply personal desire by Smt. Seema Rao to pay homage to her parents, particularly her father, Mr. Anand Rao. A fervent supporter of the arts, Late Shri. Anand Rao alongside his wife and Seema's mother, Smt. Savitri Rao, did everything within his means to help Seema realize her passion for dance. Anandotsav is a living tribute to his legacy, transforming personal gratitude into a shared community gift.
The Vision
Art thrives when it connects us. Following a successful model established by her dance school in Mumbai, India, Seema envisioned a unique platform where diverse schools, artists, and teachers could transcend boundaries. Anandotsav is not just a series of standalone performances; it is a collaborative space where various artists weave their distinct artistry together into a single, cohesive narrative driven by a unified purpose.
By bringing together the incredible talent of the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) community, Anandotsav aims to foster deep connections, spark creative collaborations, and strengthen community bonds through the universal language of art.
Anandotsav 2026: Celebrate Joy
For our 2026 edition, we are stripping away the complex narratives to focus on the core essence of what moves us.
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The Theme: Joy
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The Medium: Dance
This year, various artists and dance schools from across the DFW metroplex will integrate their unique styles into a single, breathtaking performance. Together, we will explore, express, and experience pure Joy—celebrating the resilience of the human spirit and the power of movement.
Flyer by: Manasvi Pinge
Program Details
Vinayagar Stuti
BHARATANATYAM
Jyothi Heddese, Preeti Sundaram, and Seema Rao (Dallas Dance Teachers)
A unique piece on lord ganesha presented in the Bharatanatyam Style, it does not bear any sahityam but is a prelude made with a korvai recitation that depicts the process of making a ganesha idol. Original choreography by Shri Vaibhav Arekar, re-imagined in a group choreography for ATTPAC’s Elevator Project in 2025 - Shades of Women in love.
Natesa Kautvam
KUCHIPUDI
Pranitha Emani (Student of Hemamalini Chavali)
Natesa Kauthvam is an invocation to Lord Siva in the form of Nataraja who is the Adi guru for all performing arts. A very physically intense choreography, this is a reverberating sequence of jathis and diction that describes the essence of Siva in the form of Nataraja, dancing in ecstasy on the hills of Kailas. Trident and mini drums in hand, anklets on his feet, worshipped by demons, Gods, devathas, rishis and humans, Nataraja is believed to be the ultimate authority over all artistic pursuits including music and dance. Natesa Kauthvam is set in raagam Hamsadhwani, Adi taalam, written by Kasinatha Kavi, choreographed by Padmabhushan Dr.Vempati Chinna Satyam garu.
Katyayini
MOHINIYATTAM
Bhuvana Venkataraman (Teacher, Choreographer & Performer)
Kartyayani Devi- Irayimman Thampi’s composition on Katyayani Devi is a devotional hymn praising the goddess, known for granting boons and fulfilling desires. The lyrics highlights her divine beauty, strength, and compassionate nature as the protector of her devotees. Set to soulful ragas, the composition evokes a deep sense of bhakti (devotion) and spiritual connection. Katyayani Devi is revered as the remover of obstacles. Thampi’s poetic genius is evident in the rich imagery and rhythmic beauty of the verses. This composition continues to inspire both musicians and dancers, celebrating the divine feminine Choreography-Dr Sunanda Nair
Kavya, Kavita & Krishna Bhakti
GUJARATI FOLK
Tishya Parekh , Tarika Parikh , Manisha Desai, Saanvi Bhatt, Amogh Jonnadula , Shreshta and Snigdha Tallapuredy, Smriti Srinivas & Vandita Parikh
Beyond the energetic beats of the dhol, beyond Dandiya and Raas Gujarat holds a treasure trove of profound literature. The varied folk stories and folk styles of Gujurat display vibrant cultural Heritage. This presentation explores this heritage through three distinct windows: Kavya, Kavita, and Krishna Bhakti." Literature, Poetry and Krishna devotion…very important aspects of Gujurat culture, choreographed by Vandita Parikh
We start with Tippani Folk dance , composed on a famous Gujurati timeless folk piece ( you may all recognize it ) composed by Praful Dave initially. The second item is a Garbi folk style Yes not Garba but Garbi. Garba is performed for Maa Durge while the latter is performed for Shri Dwarikanaath Shri Krishna celebrating his childhood pranks Shri Radha .This segment highlights Radha’s Krishna , the earthly lover of Vrindavan. Theirs is this living romance of shared glances, and joyful dances where Radha dresses as lord Krishna himself and dances with her sakhas and sakhis followed by Sant Kavi Meera’s Krishna is the eternal, divine husband enshrined in an idol. Hers is a mystical surrender born of fierce devotion, transforming lonely longing into cosmic union. Lastly we end with Naagar nand ji na laal depicting Krishna leela where radhe complains that while dancing with you , O Krishna, O Nand ji ke laal, i lost my nosering. I know you have it. Can you please return it ..a beautiful leela written by the revered 15th-century saint-poet Bhaktakavi Shri Narsinh Mehta.
Pranati Ide and Raase Hari
BHARATANATYAM
Jyothi Heddese (Teacher, Choreographer & Performer)
1. Pranati – Ide Vachana
Sri. Allama Prabhu was a revered 12th-century Kannada mystic and one of the foremost voices of the Vachana movement. His profound vachanas explore the nature of truth, devotion, and the journey inward, expressed through simple yet deeply philosophical words. In Pranati – Ide Vachana,composition he says that without complete surrender to Guru , one cannot attain realisation. Through subtle abhinaya, the dancer conveys the beauty of surrender and reverence with emotion and grace.
Raga: Brindavani Tala: Khanda Chaapu | Music composition : Sri.Allama Prabhu Dance Composition: Dr.M.R .Krishna Murthy
2. Raase Hari Miha – Ashtapadi
Raase Hari Miha is an enchanting Ashtapadi from Jayadeva’s Gita Govinda. Radha is saddened as she watches Krishna reveling with the other Gopikas, yet she cannot resist being captivated by his beauty, charm, and graceful presence.
Through expressive abhinaya, the dancer portrays Radha’s inner conflict—her longing for Krishna intertwined with her irresistible love and admiration for him.
RaagaMaalike and set to Adi Tala , Dance Composition: Dr..M R KrishnaMurthy
Dhaatri School of Performing Arts
Madhabe Maa Kuru
ODISSI
Suman Behra (Student of Krishnaveni Putrevu)
In the blowing of gentle breeze, Hari departs for a tryst with you. Oh Sakhi, there is no greater pleasure than meeting Him. Alas, put an end to this pride towards Madhava. How much have I spoken of his love for you. He is the one who is exceedingly charming and beautiful. You are residing in his heart for ever. Put an end to this pride towards Madhava. Why you are so dejected? Friends make merry over you. They laugh in derision that you drive away Madhava and when he is gone, you suffered in his separation. Come and see him lying on a bed of lotus petals. How can you make his heart so full of pain? Put an end to this pride towards Madhava.
Raga -Saveri, Tala - Ektali | Music composition Dr. Subash Pani | Dance choreography Guru Smt. Aruna Mohanty
Utkala Dance Academy
Adinayekana
BHARATANATYAM
Preethi Sundaram (Teacher, Choreographer, Performer)
Our next presentation is “Āḍinaiyē Kaṇṇā,” a beautiful Tamil composition by Ambujam Krishna, set in the raga Mohana Kalyani and Adi tala. The composition paints a vibrant picture of Krishna dancing joyfully in the enchanting surroundings of Brindavan. Under the moonlit sky, the Gopis gather by the riverside, drawn by Krishna’s captivating presence and melodious flute. Through graceful movements, expressive abhinaya, and rhythmic footwork, the dancers bring this divine scene to life. The music, dance, and poetry come together to celebrate Krishna’s beauty, charm, and
blissful dance.
Tarana
KATHAK
Aara, Ayushi, Aanika, Anwesha, Sayee, Sneha (Students of Anjali Magi)
Students of Nrityanjali Kathak Academy present Tarana, a rhythmic and melodic composition showcasing laya (rhythm), footwork, chakkars and graceful movements. A fast energetic dance piece Tarana is performed at the end of the kathak performance. The tarana being performed today is composed by Sitar maestro pt Ravi Shankar in taal teentaal and raga Hamsadhwani.
Nrithyanjali Kathak Academy
Zorongo & Yo la vi
FLAMENCO
Delilah Buitrón Arrebola, Antonio Arrebola, Juliet, Daniel Negrete
Zorongo is a dance of longing and passion with intricate footwork. It's a tango which is a four count rhythm. Sevillanas is a folk dance from Seville. It is traditionally danced with partners. Everyone dances in the flamenco families from grandparents to grandchildren. It's a lively dance and is a six count rhythm.
Madhurashtakam
BHARATANATYAM
Samyukta, Manasvi, Vedha, Divya, Anjana, Sumitra, Aruna (Students of Seema Rao)
Madhurashtakam, originally composed by Saint Vallabha describes how everything associated with Lord Krishna is madhuram or sweet. This dance is originally choreographed by Smt. Rama Vaidyanathan and adapted by Seema for a group presentation.
INTERMISSION
Srivighna Rajam Bhaje & Jathiswaram
BHARATANATYAM
Harshini Dodda, Pragnya Konduru, Kanishka Vijay (Students of Jyothi Heddese)
With graceful movements and expressive abhinaya, the dancer celebrates Ganesha as the remover of obstacles.
Raga: Gambheera Naatai TaLa: Khanda Chaapu
Music Composer : Sri.Oothukkadu Venkata Subbaiyer Dance Composition: Dr.M.R Krishna Murthy
Dhaatri School of Performing Arts
Bahar Ramdani & Geetor Naach
SATTRIYA
Nerina Rabha & Sulakshana Chidambaram
Bahar Ramdani and Geetor Naach, beginning with a prayer song, Ghoxa.
*Bahar means Joy.* This dance depicts the divine enjoyment of Lord Krishna and his friends in Vrindavan.
Both the prayer and this pure dance were created 500 years ago by *Mahapurush Sri Sri Madhavdev.*
Sattriya is the dance of the monks of Assam's Vaishnavite monasteries, and it is still a living tradition preserved in the Sattras, performed for sacred rituals.
Music composition by *Sangeet Natak Akademi Yuva Awardee, Guru Naren Chandra Baruah.*
Taals: Suta, Ek Taal, Pori Taal, Pori Jaman, and Thela Taal.
Raag - Basanta
This will performed by Guru Nerina Rabha and her student Sulalakshana Chidambaram
Adikondar
BHARATANATYAM
Aadhya, Archita, Bhavana, Janani, Lahari, Lakhshya, Sonali, Tanishka, Varshita, Vasundhara (Students of Preethi Sundaram)
Our next presentation celebrates the magnificent dance of Lord Nataraja, the cosmic dancer of Chidambaram.
“Āḍikkoṇḍār Andha,” composed by Muttu Tāṇḍavar, beautifully describes his divine dance in the Golden Hall.
His anklets resound, the crescent moon and Ganga adorn his matted locks, and every
ornament comes alive with his movement. The composition also brings together celestial beings, sages, Nandi, Patanjali, Vyaghrapada, and Sivakami, who witness this glorious dance. Through powerful movements and expressive storytelling, the dancers bring the grandeur of this divine celebration to the stage.
Hori
KATHAK
Anjali Magi (Teacher, choreographer, performer)
A beautiful Hindustani classical and semi classical form associated with the festival of colors Holi. It is often presented in kathak as an abhinaya piece. It usually portrays the playful holi celebrations of Radha and Krishna. The poetry of the composition express. The Shringara ras through love and romance, Hasya ras through playful teasing and Bhakti Ras through devotion to Krishna. This is sung by Pt Vinay Bhide ji. It's a Mishra rag bandish composed in taal deepchandi.
Nrithyanjali Kathak Academy
Saptaswara Shambho
BHARATANATYAM
Bhuvana Venkataraman & Chintan Patel
The carnatic music system consists of seven notes called as Saptaswaras - sapta being 7 and swara being musical note. The seven notes - S R G M P D N. The next performance Saptaswara features one story of Shiva from the puranas for each of the 7 musical notes.
Can't Help Falling in love with
JAZZ & LYRICAL
JElizabeth Osborne, Tal Drori, Nancy Ridlen, Pam Tiner, Sandy Young
At Evoke Dance Company, we believe that a love of dance lasts a lifetime. Our mission is to bring together seasoned dancers who have dedicated their hearts, energy, and creativity to the art of movement, providing an opportunity where they can continue to perform, grow, and share their passion. The name Evoke reflects the very purpose of our company: to create performances that stir emotion, ignite imagination, and leave a lasting impression. To evoke means to bring a feeling, memory, or image vividly to mind—and that is what we strive to accomplish every time we take the stage.
Mu Biki Deichi Parana
ODISSI
Shyamala Bhimavarapu, Yagna Dheepika, Turya Nair, Srilakshmi Valisammagari (Students of Krishnaveni Putrevu)
There is no joy that can match being in the presence of the Divine Beloved - and there is no example of this quite like the Gopis with their beloved Krishna. When they cannot be with Him, they daydream about Him. When he teases and torments them, and then proclaims his innocence, their anger is melted sweetly away by His overwhelming charm. The Odissi form of dance is uniquely suited to capturing the grace and playfulness of this relationship, presented in this piece, "Mu Biki Deichi Parana Ghanashyama", meaning, "I have sold my heart to Krishna". We hope you enjoy this performance as our dancers are transmuted into Gopis lost in reveries of Krishna's divine games.
Utkala Dance Academy
September 7th
JAZZ & Lyrical
Elizabeth Osborne, Tal Drori, Nancy Ridlen, Pam Tiner, Sandy Young
At Evoke Dance Company, we believe that a love of dance lasts a lifetime. Our mission is to bring together seasoned dancers who have dedicated their hearts, energy, and creativity to the art of movement, providing an opportunity where they can continue to perform, grow, and share their passion. The name Evoke reflects the very purpose of our company: to create performances that stir emotion, ignite imagination, and leave a lasting impression. To evoke means to bring a feeling, memory, or image vividly to mind—and that is what we strive to accomplish every time we take the stage.
Evoke Dance Company
Thillana
BHARATANATYAM
Bhuvana Venkataraman, Jyothi Heddese, Preeti Sundaram, and Seema Rao (Dallas Dance Teachers)
A vibrant finale to a performance is thillana filled with brisk footwork and fast movements and formations. Today's thillana in Raga Kathanakuthuhalam, composed by Sri Balamuralikrishna, is a legendary and favorite thillana of dancers worldwide. This was choreographed initially for ATT Performing Arts Centers Elevator Project in 2025, and has been reimagined for Anandotsav.
Abhang - Abeer gulaal udhalit rang
BHARATANATYAM
Seema Rao (joined by other dancers)
Presented in the traditional Marathi style, this piece expresses deep devotion and celebration. It is our humble attempt to recreate the vibrant pilgrim processions that make their way to Pandharpur in Maharashtra, where devotees sing, dance, and celebrate the Lord with boundless joy as they gather for a glimpse of Lord Vitthala.
With Holi, the festival of colors, having just passed, it felt especially fitting to include this vibrant and celebratory piece in today’s recital. Please join us in experiencing the beauty, devotion, and bliss of this abhanga.