Yamini Reddy

From hesitant beginnings to becoming a distinguished performer, Prakriti Prashant’s journey with Kuchipudi has been one of quiet transformation and deep devotion to the art.

Prakriti, or Pari as she is fondly known, joined Natya Tarangini Hyderabad at the age of 12. What first began through her mother’s encouragement slowly blossomed into an enduring passion. Over the years, the stage became a space where she discovered confidence, freedom, and a profound connection to herself through dance.

Beyond performance, years of training have shaped the way she approaches everyday life. Dance has instilled discipline, perseverance, and the confidence to embrace challenges with grace. Whether as an architect or an artist, the patience, creativity, and attention to detail cultivated through Kuchipudi continue to guide her in both her personal and professional pursuits.

An architect by profession and an artist at heart, her understanding of space, form, and sacred architecture beautifully informs her approach to classical dance—making it thoughtful, grounded, and deeply expressive.

Dance, when you’re broken open. Dance, if you’ve torn the bandage off. Dance in the middle of the fighting. Dance in your blood. Dance when you’re perfectly free…..

Rumi

As an artist , I have received much from my art form and community. While it is easy to get lost in the creative pursuits of oneself , I decided to instate ‘World Dance Day’ award , as a moment to pause reflect and appreciate the contribution of individuals whose silent contribution to dance in allied scholarly ways has enriched the field immensely.

This year Natya Tarangini Hyderabad is honoured to confer the ‘World Dance Day Award 2026’ on Harikatha artist Shri M.V Simhachala Sastry.

I am very happy to share with you that Sanatan Sangeet Sanskriti , Delhi will be conferring me with the ‘ Sanatan Sangeet Award 2026 in the Category of Indian Classical Dance’ tonight. As a part of this I will be presenting a short performance at IIC Delhi , 4 pm. Since Holi is around the corner , I will be presenting a beautiful ‘Ashtapadi’. I wil be accompanied on music by the a set of talented musicians and Do join us if you are in town.