West Chester East High School Auditorium was the setting for the Annual Student Showcase of the International Center for Kuchipudi Dance (ICKD). The event showcased Kuchipudi’s grace, skill, and tradition, which are the principal characteristics of this ancient Indian classical dance.
H.E. Piyush Singh, Head of Press and Culture, Indian Consulatein New York, formally opened the event and was accompanied by prominent members of the arts and culture community in the greater Philadelphia area.
Founded by the world-renowned Kuchipudi virtuoso, Bhavana Reddy, the International Centre for Kuchipudi Dance is an institution, fostering a community for Kuchipudi. As the daughter of Padma Bhushan Awardees Drs. Raja and Radha Reddy, she is continuing the Reddy family’s illustrious legacy. Students from states such as Texas, California, Arizona, Illinois and Pennsylvania showcased their hard work and dedication and delivered an entertaining performance filled with traditional Kuchipudi pieces.
Through virtual training with Bhavana Reddy over the last few years, her students came together to attend intensive rehearsals with her in Philadelphia this month and create the outstanding show they presented. The works presented during the performance Mandooka Sabdam, Jathiswaram, Annamacharya Keerthana, Jathikattu and Rajashri Sabdam and the institution continues to grow, building upon the teachings of her gurus.
Bhavana Reddy’s teaching philosophies have nurtured a wide range of students both experienced and beginner, adults and kids
“Of the several ancient forms of dance and art on this earth, Kuchipudi, which can be interpreted as the essence of India, has the largest number of practitioners worldwide.
Bhavana Reddy, founder and artistic director of the International Center for Kuchipudi Dance, says, “This production has helped to generate interest in Indian antiquity and dance form through the diligence and commitment of our students. We hope our production encourages stronger interest in and participation in Indian classical arts.”
International Centre for Kuchipudi Dance (ICKD), founded in 2020, is an institution dedicated to the education and support of a global network of committed devotees, with approximately 30 members located in the USA, Bahamas, Canada, Europe, UAE, and India. Over the past five years, ICKD has been able to host 5 digital showcases and now hosts 4 live showcases and has worldwide reach for Kuchipudi dance.
The recorded version of the international student showcase will be streamed live on YouTube on 14 December 2025 for the international audience’s enjoyment.
