There goes a popular adage by Heath Ledger that, “If you are good at something, you must never do it for free.” However, city-based multiple award-winner and trained Odissi dancer, Vandana Supriya doesn’t buy into the hype — the 28-year-old is open to giving free Odissi classes to the underprivileged kids and aspiring artistes in Bengaluru. In a free wheeling chat, she tells us more…
“Growing up in an unconventional school really helped me channelise my talents and energy judiciously. Unlike most convent-educated kids, I never drowned myself in books. I went to the Sita School near Hesaraghatta, where learning was encouraged through practical experience. So, learning happened by the river side or at a museum! I was seven when I enrolled for Bharatnatyam classes in the city. But, since we lived far away, travelling to and fro was a hassle, and I had to stop it mid-way,” shares Vandana, who was felicitated by the Council of India Award for Art and Culture in July 2016.
But as destiny had it, Vandana’s will found a way. “Believe it or not, but I was so passionate about wanting to learn dance that I boarded a bus all on my own to Nrityagram, the dance school when I was eight. I signed up for Mohiniyattam, but when the teacher left, I incidentally chanced upon Odissi and thought of giving it a try. And that’s how it all started,” she reveals smilingly.
Armed with 15 years of experience as a dancer, and a recipient of titles like Nritya Shiromani, Sanskar Bharati, Odissi Jyothi Awards and the like; the accomplished danseuse is now looking at ways to give back.
“I’ve always been immensely grateful for everything. When I get acknowledged for my work, the first thing to strike me is if my story or expertise would help the underprivileged. And that’s exactly why I began to offer free classes to government school kids and underprivileged kids. I think there’s a lot of talent which goes unnoticed because of the lack of funds. I wish to do my bit to be a part of the solution.”
What’s more, while she currently trains underprivileged kids, she is open to offering classes to anyone with an innate flair for the traditional dance form as part of Kala Deepa Programme started by her. “Basically, anyone with a genuine love for Odissi can come and learn. The idea is to reach out to as many kids and talent in the city and outside, with a hope of awakening the artiste in one.”
