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 A sacred story in motion: Srivani Vokkarane's 'Tulasi' captivates Naperville- Aruna V Davise-mail: arunadavis@gmail.com December 7, 2025 The Matrix Club in Naperville, IL, transformed into an intimate temple of storytelling and devotion as more than one hundred attendees gathered to experience 'Tulasi,' a Kuchipudi solo presentation by dancer and artistic director Srivani Vokkarane. The performance coincided with the centenary of Bhagwan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, lending the evening a spiritual charge that was palpable from the moment the lights dimmed. What followed was a performance that moved with the weight of tradition and the freshness of heartfelt storytelling.  Srivani's execution of the Bhaanika style, where one dancer brings to life an entire constellation of characters, was nothing short of extraordinary. She moved seamlessly from Satyabhama's intensity to Rukmini's grace, from Narada's clever sparkle to Krishna's quiet divinity with fluidity that made each persona unmistakable. Guru Dr.Veena Murthy Vijay's exemplary choreography stood out, and her able mentorship elevated the production at every moment on stage. For seasoned classical dancers in the audience, this was a masterclass in abhinaya and Kuchipudi footwork. For newcomers, it was theatre at its most engaging. The Tulabharam sequence became the artistic and emotional peak of the evening. The large set of scales, shipped specially from India, stood as a dramatic centerpiece. When Rukmini placed a single Tulasi leaf to balance the divine weight of Krishna, the hall erupted into spontaneous applause. The symbolism of devotion outweighing riches resonated deeply with every viewer. Tulasi is a subject seldom chosen for classical dance because it requires a deep understanding and delicate emotional handling. The gurus present commended the performance with exceptional warmth. Each one remarked that Tulasi is rarely explored with such thematic clarity and choreographic integrity. They praised the way the script honored Natya Sastra, how the narrative remained uncluttered, and how Srivani brought the subtlety of Tulasi's character to life with depth and humility. When stalwarts of that caliber speak with one voice, it signifies an artistic triumph. Another deeply touching moment was the unveiling of a Vishnu painting created under the guidance of Guru Ramya Roddom. Dedicated to Srivani's parents, the artwork bridged her childhood home in India with her creative present. The audience felt the emotion in the room rise as the painting was revealed. It was an intimate homage presented amidst an already sacred evening. Behind every artist stands a circle of strength, and on this evening the strength was unmistakable. Her husband, Srini, who had supported her through months of planning and preparation, offered a heartfelt vote of thanks at the close of the event. A cheerful raffle drawn by Lakshmi Venkatraman added a final touch of community warmth.  The magic of 'Tulasi' lay in its ability to reach every kind of viewer. Classical dancers found layers of technique, adherence to tradition, and precision of movement. First-time audience members connected immediately with the clarity of the story and the beauty of the presentation. This harmony of accessibility and authenticity is rare. Srivani created a space where the connoisseurs and the commoners could sit side by side and savor the experience equally. As the audience stepped out into the cool November air, the feeling was unmistakable. They had shared an evening that felt devotional, artistic, and collectively uplifting. On a weekend dedicated to gratitude, 'Tulasi' became a gentle offering of faith, beauty, and community. Srivani did not simply dance the story of Tulasi. She carried the story, lived the story, and ultimately became the story. Aruna V. Davis is a writer, educator, and arts enthusiast who currently serves as the Founder and CEO of Learn To Write Now. She has emceed and reviewed numerous cultural events in the US Midwest. |
