Alekhya Shivshankar

She can personify the much bashful heroine Alivelumanga, and can then take over, through startling energized expressions, the portraying of the emancipated Kali. Her fluid facial expressions interpret volumes of feelings and moods, and the dance mode is marked by a feminine grace of undisputable pulchritude. She gives a tender enchanting touch to the otherwise dramatic form of Kuchipudi through her own dainty, yet magical gestures and expressions.

Alekhya Shivshankar needs no introduction. But we still gave it. And you still liked to read it.

A professional dancer with over 20 years of performing experience, the veteran danseuse is nothing short of stunning on stage. Having been coached by Lasya Priya guru Uma Rama Rao, Alekhya, best known for her intense and moving portrayal of the goddess Alivelumanga, believes that dance is a spiritual experience, a world within oneself where one takes refuge in times of trouble, a phenomenon that gives strength and equips one to cope better with the world.

Alekhya calls herself a traditionalist, and is against tampering with the ancient dance form of Kuchipudi. She encourages male dancers in particular to take up the art professionally, since the younger generation lacks quality male talent.

When the Pottu Sriramulu University beckoned, Alekhya, being articulate and well-versed in the theory of dance, decided to pass on her knowledge to the younger generation by taking up the post of Associate Professor of Dance, and did a stint as the Head of the Department too. But despite teaching full-time, she does take up private students, and classes are conducted in her spacious Himayatnagar home. Those interested may contact her at the numbers given above.