21st Annual Day
Saturday 12th April 2025
Leeds West Academy Theatre, LS13 1DQ.
CHIEF GUESTS
Sri Manu S. Pillai
Historian & Author
Smt Geetha Padmakumar
Kuchipudi Dancer & Choreographer
Chief Guests
Sri Manu S. Pillai
Delivered the key note address on Sruthi's 21st Annual Day. He is an internationally acclaimed author and Historian. Since the award winning debut book on 'The House of Travancore' in 2015, his books have redefined popular and influenced critical discourse on Deccan Sultans, Indian Maharajahs and Hindu Identity.
Smt Geetha Padmakumar
Performed on the Sruthi Stage. Beginning her Kuchipudi journey under the guidance of Kalamandalam Mohana Thulasi, she has performed on prestigious stages worldwide, captivating audience with her grace and expertise. As the founder of Paadam school of Kuchipudi, she is dedicated to teaching and inspiring the next generation of dancers.
Programme of Events
Dance performance by Smt Geetha Padmakumar.
Interview with Sri Manu S. Pillai.
SIVASAKHTI
According to Indian mythology, Sivasakthi concept highlights the
interdependence of masculine and feminine energy. Siva, the supreme consciousness unites with Sakthi’s energy to manifest, create, sustain and destroy. Sruthi dancers portrayed this concept with their thematic production Sivasakthi.
ECHOES OF FREEDOM
This solo contemporary Bharatanatyam performance by Breeze George unveiled
Britain’s post-colonial amnesia and reclaims India’s history of freedom fighting. Through evocative storytelling and intricate movements, narratives of the empire are challenged and that on
Indian identity redefined. A compelling journey of memory, resilience and reflection!
CHITRAVARNANGAL
A musical tribute, honouring the enduring legacies of two cultural
icons, whose works continue to touch our hearts and minds.
Unfolding in two segments: the first celebrated the soulful voice of P
Jayachandran, with a selection of his cherished hits over the years; the second shined a light on the brilliance of MT Vasudevan Nair, featuring songs from films he scripted, reflecting on his mastery at storytelling. Music and poetry intertwined, honouring the profound and lasting influence of the two late legends in the world of music
and cinema.
IVORY THRONE
Sruthi's in-house theatre staged Ivory Throne, Manu Pillai’s tale of the
intricate power dynamics in relationships amidst historical forces in
the Travancore Royal Family, set against the familial backdrop of
Sethu Lakshmi Bayi and Sethu Parvathi Bayi. Matrilineal succession and power struggles strain their maternal connection, plunging them into venomous rivalry. Their lives reflect their kingdom's greater dilemma of being poised between tradition and modernity and the complexities of evolving gender roles. The story reminded us of how ambition, vengeance, and obligation shape the destiny of a dynasty, resonating across centuries and shifting social circumstances.
