Kuchipudi Dance Drama Mesmerizes Forsyth County: A Celebration of Art for Education in Cumming, Georgia

When arts, culture, and community work hand in hand for education, then prosperity follows with ease. And when community leaders and government officials lend their moral support, vision transforms into robust reality. Such a spirit of collaboration with results was shone brightly on October 5th, 2025, at the Focal Center in Cumming, Georgia.

Atlanta’s popular Nataraja Natyanjali Kuchipudi Dance Academy, in partnership with Rotary South Forsyth, presented Chenchu Lakshmi – a mesmerizing Indian classical Kuchipudi dance musical supporting a fundraiser benefiting the Forsyth County Education Foundation (FCEF).

The evening opened with graceful invocations and warm introductions by the Masters of Ceremonies, Harshini Chundi and Srilekha Adusumilli. MC’s guided the evening with poise and enthusiasm, and welcomed a packed audience of art lovers, community members, government officials, and distinguished guests setting an atmosphere of devotion and pride.

A captivating video introduction by Malathi Nagabhairava beautifully narrated the inspiration behind Chenchu Lakshmi and the significance of the whole program supporting the student learning and innovation in local schools. The Lighting of the Lamp ceremony marked the auspicious beginning of the event.

The lamp was lit by a distinguished lineup of community leaders and dignitaries, including:

Ron Freeman – Sheriff, Forsyth County Police
William Finch – Solicitor General, Forsyth County
Alfred John – Chairman of the Board of Commissioners, Forsyth County
Michael Barron – Chairman, Forsyth County Education Foundation

Renee Welch – Director, Rotary Club of South Forsyth County
Kalyani Chundi – HC Robotics, Diamond Sponsor
Bharat Govinda – CEO, Assure Guru
Neelima Gaddamanugu – Nataraja Natyanjali Kuchipudi Dance Academy
SreeRam Royyala – Chairman, Zoning Board of Appeals, Forsyth County

In his opening address, organizer SreeRam Royyala emphasized the shared mission of education and community empowerment. “This event is a perfect example of how culture can serve as a bridge between communities and causes. Supporting education through art connects generations, uplifts both hearts and minds.” he said.

The centerpiece of the evening and the magnificent dance drama, “Chenchu Lakshmi,” was a grand Kuchipudi ballet that transported the audience to the divine forests of Nallamala, retelling the ancient story of Lord Vishnu’s Narasimha avatar and Goddess Lakshmi’s incarnation as Chenchu Lakshmi, a tribal princess.

The entire credit goes to the artistic Guru Neelima Gaddamanugu and the talented students of Nataraja Natyanjali Kuchipudi Dance Academy. The dancers’ synchronization, rhythmic precision, and emotive portrayal left a lasting impact. The production highlighted the richness of Indian mythology.

They showcased how classical arts can remain relevant in a modern cultural landscape. Every scene unfolded with breathtaking choreography, intricate footwork, expressive facial expressions, and vibrant costumes. The performance seamlessly blended traditional Kuchipudi elements with dramatic storytelling, earning thunderous applause from the audience after every act.

Distinguished guests, including community leaders, educators, and elected officials were called onto the stage and welcomed with a flower bouquet. SreeRam Royyala and Neelima Gaddamanugu took the lead and recognized them with a shawl and a plaque. They commended Neelima’s efforts to use art as a means of giving back to the community.

Guests of Honor
Todd Jones – Chairman, Georgia Technology & Infrastructure Innovation Committee, State Representative, District 25
Carter Barrett – State Representative, District 24
Ron Freeman – Sheriff, Forsyth County Police
William Finch – Solicitor General, Forsyth County

Alfred John – Chairman of the Board of Commissioners, Forsyth County
Michael Barron – Chairman, Forsyth County Education Foundation
Renee Welch – Director, Rotary Club of South Forsyth County
Mendy Moore – Commissioner, District 3, Forsyth County
Todd Levent – Commissioner, District 4, Forsyth County

“Events like Chenchu Lakshmi bring communities together and remind us that education, art, and service are deeply interconnected,” said Todd Jones, State Representative for District 25. “Supporting the Forsyth County Education Foundation through such cultural programs highlights how diversity enriches our community,” added Michael Barron, Chairman of FCEF.

SreeRam Royyala and Neelima Gaddamanugu thanked all the sponsors, community leaders, students, parents, attendees, venue management, ByteGraph for their support in pulling off such a magnanimous event. With over 500 guests in attendance, the evening was a vibrant celebration of heritage and philanthropy.

Indian community leaders including Srinivas Lavu, Goutham Goli, Mallik Medarametla, Ram Durvasula, Upendra Narra, Srinivas Uppu, Rajesh Jampala, Sairam Karumanchi, Madhukar Yarlagadda, Suneetha Potnuru, Bharath Maddineni, Srivalli Sridhar, Yashwanth Jonnalagadda, Mallika Reddy along with Johns Creek City Mayor Pro Tem Dilip Tunki were seen at the event. Attendees took lot of pictures with guests, The event concluded on a high note with vote of thanks.