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{{Short description|Indian Kuchipudi artiste, choreographer and cultural organizer}}
{{#seo:
| title=Vikram Kumar B R – Indian Kuchipudi Artiste, Choreographer and Cultural Organizer
| title_mode=append
| keywords=Vikram Kumar B R, Vikram Kumar BR, Bathina Vikram Goud, Kuchipudi artiste India, Indian classical dancer, Kuchipudi choreographer, Kuchipudi dance promoter, Indian classical arts organizer, Nataraj Music and Dance Academy, NMDA founder president, Indian dance festival organizer, Vysakhi Nrithyotsav, Bharat Nrithyotsav, Nataraj Nrithyotsav, FCDFO, International Traditional Dance Congress, ITDC, The Dance India, Indian classical dance preservation, Indian cultural organizer, Andhra Pradesh Kuchipudi
| description=Vikram Kumar B R, also known as Bathina Vikram Goud, is an Indian Kuchipudi artiste, choreographer, theatre director, cultural organizer and editor. He is the Founder-President of Nataraj Music and Dance Academy and has been associated with Indian classical dance festivals, cultural documentation, The Dance India, FCDFO and the International Traditional Dance Congress.
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| image_alt=Vikram Kumar B R Indian Kuchipudi Artiste and Cultural Organizer
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    Vikram Kumar B R
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<b>Full Name:</b> Vikram Kumar B R
</div>


{{Infobox person
<div style="border-bottom:1px solid #000; padding:4px 0;">
| name              = Vikram Kumar B R
<b>Also Known As:</b> Bathina Vikram Goud
| other_names        = Bathina Vikram Goud
</div>
| occupation        = Kuchipudi artiste, choreographer, theatre director, editor, cultural organizer
 
| education          = Master of Arts in Kuchipudi
<div style="border-bottom:1px solid #000; padding:4px 0;">
| alma_mater        = Andhra University
<b>Nationality:</b> Indian
| organization      = Nataraj Music and Dance Academy
</div>
| known_for          = Promotion and preservation of Indian classical dance
 
| title              = Founder-President, Nataraj Music and Dance Academy
<div style="border-bottom:1px solid #000; padding:4px 0;">
| years_active      = 2000–present
<b>Profession:</b> Kuchipudi Artiste, Choreographer, Theatre Director, Editor, Cultural Organizer
}}
</div>
 
<div style="border-bottom:1px solid #000; padding:4px 0;">
<b>Education:</b> Master of Arts in Kuchipudi, Andhra University; Diplomas in Acting and Direction
</div>
 
<div style="border-bottom:1px solid #000; padding:4px 0;">
<b>Known For:</b> Kuchipudi, Classical Dance Festivals, Cultural Documentation and Arts Promotion
</div>
 
<div style="border-bottom:1px solid #000; padding:4px 0;">
<b>Organization:</b> Nataraj Music and Dance Academy (NMDA)
</div>
 
<div style="border-bottom:1px solid #000; padding:4px 0;">
<b>Position:</b> Founder-President, Nataraj Music and Dance Academy
</div>
 
<div style="border-bottom:1px solid #000; padding:4px 0;">
<b>Founded:</b> Nataraj Music and Dance Academy, 2000
</div>
 
<div style="border-bottom:1px solid #000; padding:4px 0;">
<b>Major Initiatives:</b> Vysakhi Nrithyotsav, Bharat Nrithyotsav, Nataraj Nrithyotsav, Jathis Music & Dance Festival, Amaravathi Nrithyotsav
</div>
 
<div style="border-bottom:1px solid #000; padding:4px 0;">
<b>Other Initiatives:</b> FCDFO, International Traditional Dance Congress (ITDC), The Dance India
</div>
 
<div style="border-bottom:1px solid #000; padding:4px 0;">
<b>Publication:</b> The Dance India
</div>
 
<div style="border-bottom:1px solid #000; padding:4px 0;">
<b>Editorial Role:</b> Editor-in-Chief, The Dance India
</div>
 
<div style="border-bottom:1px solid #000; padding:4px 0;">
<b>Art Form:</b> Kuchipudi and Indian Traditional Performing Arts
</div>
 
<div style="border-bottom:1px solid #000; padding:4px 0;">
<b>Notable Productions:</b> Chenchu Lakshmi Narasimha Kalyanam, Swachh Ganga – Swachh Bharat, Maha Visakha Vaibhavam, Sri Krishna Leelalu
</div>


'''Vikram Kumar B R''', also known as '''Bathina Vikram Goud''', is an Indian [[Kuchipudi]] artiste, choreographer, theatre director, cultural organizer, editor and arts administrator. He is the founder-president of the [[Nataraj Music and Dance Academy]] (NMDA) and has been associated with the promotion, documentation and preservation of Indian classical and traditional performing arts.{{citation needed}}
<div style="padding:4px 0;">
<b>Awards:</b> Republic Day Excellence Award, Best Promoter of Indian Culture Award, International Dance Congress Excellency Award, Rastreeya Kala Poshak Samman, Naatya Kala Poshaka Award, Jayadev Excellency Award, Ugadi Puraskar State Award
</div>


He has organized a number of classical dance festivals and cultural initiatives and has also been associated with the Federation of Classical Dance Festival Organisers (FCDFO) and the International Traditional Dance Congress (ITDC).{{citation needed}}
</div>
</div>
'''Vikram Kumar B R''', also known as '''Bathina Vikram Goud''', is an Indian  Kuchipudi  artiste, choreographer, theatre director, cultural organizer, editor and arts administrator. He is the founder-president of the  Nataraj Music and Dance Academy (NMDA) and has been associated with the promotion, documentation and preservation of Indian classical and traditional performing arts.


==Early life and education==
==Early life and education==


Kumar developed an interest in performing arts during childhood and received encouragement from his father.{{citation needed}}
Kumar developed an interest in performing arts during childhood and received encouragement from his father.


He studied [[Kuchipudi]] academically and obtained a Master of Arts degree in Kuchipudi with distinction from [[Andhra University]].{{citation needed}} During his association with the university, he was involved in activities connected with the establishment and development of its Department of Dance.{{citation needed}}
He studied Kuchipudi academically and obtained a Master of Arts degree in Kuchipudi with distinction from Andhra University . During his association with the university, he was involved in activities connected with the establishment and development of its Department of Dance.


As part of his postgraduate studies, Kumar conducted research on ''Siva Thandavam'' and ''Saptha Thandavam'' in the Kuchipudi tradition. His academic work included a comparative study involving the literary works of Telugu poet [[Puttaparthi Narayanacharyulu]].{{citation needed}}
As part of his postgraduate studies, Kumar conducted research on ''Siva Thandavam'' and ''Saptha Thandavam'' in the Kuchipudi tradition. His academic work included a comparative study involving the literary works of Telugu poet Puttaparthi Narayanacharyulu .


Kumar also completed diplomas in Acting and Direction from Andhra University. He was associated with the university's Department of Theatre Arts for approximately ten years and participated in mythological, social and philosophical theatrical productions.{{citation needed}}
Kumar also completed diplomas in Acting and Direction from Andhra University. He was associated with the university's Department of Theatre Arts for approximately ten years and participated in mythological, social and philosophical theatrical productions.


==Dance and choreography==
==Dance and choreography==


Kumar has worked as a performer and choreographer in Kuchipudi and has created dance productions combining classical dance, theatrical presentation and traditional narratives.{{citation needed}}
Kumar has worked as a performer and choreographer in Kuchipudi and has created dance productions combining classical dance, theatrical presentation and traditional narratives.


Among his productions is ''Chenchu Lakshmi Narasimha Kalyanam'', a thematic ballet based on traditions associated with Lord Narasimha of [[Simhachalam]]. The production combines elements of Kuchipudi with folk performance traditions and, according to biographical material about Kumar, has been staged at more than 150 venues in India.{{citation needed}}
Among his productions is ''Chenchu Lakshmi Narasimha Kalyanam'', a thematic ballet based on traditions associated with Lord Narasimha of Simhachalam . The production combines elements of Kuchipudi with folk performance traditions and has been staged at more than 150 venues in India.


Another production, ''Swachh Ganga – Swachh Bharat'', was inspired by ''Bhagiratha Vilasam'' and used classical dance to address environmental themes, including water conservation and cleanliness.{{citation needed}}
Another production, ''Swachh Ganga – Swachh Bharat'', was inspired by ''Bhagiratha Vilasam'' and used classical dance to address environmental themes, including water conservation and cleanliness.


Other choreographed productions associated with Kumar include:
Other choreographed productions associated with Kumar include:
Line 41: Line 124:
* ''Society for Future''
* ''Society for Future''
* ''Youth Never Sleeps''
* ''Youth Never Sleeps''
{{citation needed}}


==Nataraj Music and Dance Academy==
==Nataraj Music and Dance Academy==


In 2000, Kumar founded the '''Nataraj Music and Dance Academy''' (NMDA), an organization engaged in teaching and promoting Indian classical performing arts.{{citation needed}}
In 2000, Kumar founded the '''Nataraj Music and Dance Academy''' (NMDA), an organization engaged in teaching and promoting Indian classical performing arts.


The academy provides training in Kuchipudi and conducts cultural programmes, competitions, festivals and other initiatives related to dance, music and visual arts.{{citation needed}}
The academy provides training in Kuchipudi and conducts cultural programmes, competitions, festivals and other initiatives related to dance, music and visual arts.


NMDA has been described as ISO-certified and as a member of the International Dance Council (CID).{{citation needed}}
NMDA is ISO-certified and is a member of the International Dance Council (CID).


Kumar serves as the academy's founder-president. Through NMDA, he has been involved in organizing festivals intended to provide performance opportunities to established as well as emerging classical dancers.{{citation needed}}
Kumar serves as the academy's founder-president. Through NMDA, he has been involved in organizing festivals intended to provide performance opportunities to established as well as emerging classical dancers.


==Dance festivals and cultural initiatives==
==Dance festivals and cultural initiatives==


Kumar has established and organized several dance festivals and cultural programmes through NMDA and associated organizations.{{citation needed}}
Kumar has established and organized several dance festivals and cultural programmes through NMDA and associated organizations.


===Vysakhi Nrithyotsav===
===Vysakhi Nrithyotsav===


The '''Vysakhi Nrithyotsav''' was established in 2008 as an All-India classical dance festival. It brings together performers representing various Indian classical dance traditions.{{citation needed}}
The '''Vysakhi Nrithyotsav''' was established in 2008 as an All-India classical dance festival. It brings together performers representing various Indian classical dance traditions.


===Bharat Nrithyotsav===
===Bharat Nrithyotsav===


The '''Bharat Nrithyotsav''' was launched in 2010 as a platform for presenting Indian classical dance and encouraging interaction between Indian and international performers.{{citation needed}}
The '''Bharat Nrithyotsav''' was launched in 2010 as a platform for presenting Indian classical dance and encouraging interaction between Indian and international performers.


===Nataraj Nrithyotsav===
===Nataraj Nrithyotsav===


Established in 2012, the '''Nataraj Nrithyotsav''' was created as a festival focusing particularly on male classical dancers.{{citation needed}}
Established in 2012, the '''Nataraj Nrithyotsav''' was created as a festival focusing particularly on male classical dancers.


===Naatya Tharang Sangeeth Nrithyotsav===
===Naatya Tharang Sangeeth Nrithyotsav===


The '''Naatya Tharang Sangeeth Nrithyotsav''' was introduced in 2012 as a recurring music and dance performance series.{{citation needed}}
The '''Naatya Tharang Sangeeth Nrithyotsav''' was introduced in 2012 as a recurring music and dance performance series.


===Sathyabhama Yuva Nrithyotsav===
===Sathyabhama Yuva Nrithyotsav===


The '''Sathyabhama Yuva Nrithyotsav''', established in 2013, focuses on providing opportunities for younger dancers and emerging performers.{{citation needed}}
The '''Sathyabhama Yuva Nrithyotsav''', established in 2013, focuses on providing opportunities to younger dancers and emerging performers.


===Jathis Music & Dance Festival===
===Jathis Music & Dance Festival===


The '''Jathis Music & Dance Festival''' was developed as a multi-city cultural programme intended to increase access to classical performing arts in different regions.{{citation needed}}
The '''Jathis Music & Dance Festival''' was developed as a multi-city cultural programme intended to increase access to classical performing arts in different regions.


===Amaravathi Nrithyotsav===
===Amaravathi Nrithyotsav===


The '''Amaravathi Nrithyotsav''' was launched in 2015 and has included classical, tribal and folk performing traditions.{{citation needed}}
The '''Amaravathi Nrithyotsav''' was launched in 2015 and has included classical, tribal and folk performing traditions.


===Other festivals===
===Other festivals===
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* Mysore Dasara Nrithyotsav
* Mysore Dasara Nrithyotsav


{{citation needed}}
These programmes have featured senior performers, young artistes and recipients of national honours in Indian performing arts.
 
These programmes have featured senior performers, young artistes and recipients of national honours in Indian performing arts.{{citation needed}}


==Federation of Classical Dance Festival Organisers==
==Federation of Classical Dance Festival Organisers==


Kumar has been associated with efforts to establish and develop the '''Federation of Classical Dance Festival Organisers''' (FCDFO).{{citation needed}}
Kumar has been associated with efforts to establish and develop the '''Federation of Classical Dance Festival Organisers''' (FCDFO).


The federation was conceived as a common platform for organizers of Indian classical dance festivals. Its stated objectives include improving cooperation among festival organizers, sharing resources and knowledge, developing performance opportunities for artistes and supporting the wider classical dance festival community.{{citation needed}}
The federation was conceived as a common platform for organizers of Indian classical dance festivals. Its stated objectives include improving cooperation among festival organizers, sharing resources and knowledge, developing performance opportunities for artistes and supporting the wider classical dance festival community.


FCDFO has also proposed programmes for younger artistes, including scholarships and fellowships intended to support continued education and professional development in classical dance.{{citation needed}}
FCDFO has also proposed programmes for younger artistes, including scholarships and fellowships intended to support continued education and professional development in classical dance.


==International Traditional Dance Congress==
==International Traditional Dance Congress==


Kumar is also associated with the '''International Traditional Dance Congress''' (ITDC), an initiative focused on traditional and classical dance practices.{{citation needed}}
Kumar is also associated with the '''International Traditional Dance Congress''' (ITDC), an initiative focused on traditional and classical dance practices.


The congress was conceived as a platform where performers, teachers, scholars, students and cultural representatives could participate in activities including:
The congress was conceived as a platform where performers, teachers, scholars, students and cultural representatives could participate in activities including:
Line 121: Line 200:
* Collaborative dance productions
* Collaborative dance productions


{{citation needed}}
A large-scale collaborative presentation known as ''Maha Brunda Nrityam'' has also been associated with ITDC activities.
 
A large-scale collaborative presentation known as ''Maha Brunda Nrityam'' has also been associated with ITDC activities.{{citation needed}}


The congress aims to combine performance with research, documentation, pedagogy and discussions about the preservation and transmission of traditional dance practices.{{citation needed}}
The congress aims to combine performance with research, documentation, pedagogy and discussions about the preservation and transmission of traditional dance practices.


==The Dance India==
==The Dance India==


Kumar founded and serves as editor-in-chief of '''The Dance India''', an English-language cultural publication devoted to Indian dance and performing arts.{{citation needed}}
Kumar founded and serves as editor-in-chief of '''The Dance India''', an English-language cultural publication devoted to Indian dance and performing arts.


The publication covers subjects including:
The publication covers subjects including:
Line 140: Line 217:
* Academic and scholarly articles
* Academic and scholarly articles


{{citation needed}}
The publication is registered with RNI and has an ISSN. It has also been reported to reach more than 650 libraries in India.
 
According to information published about the initiative, ''The Dance India'' is registered with RNI and has an ISSN. It has also been reported to reach more than 650 libraries in India.{{citation needed}}


Kumar has described documentation as an important component of cultural preservation, particularly for recording the work of performers, teachers and traditional art communities.{{citation needed}}
Kumar has described documentation as an important component of cultural preservation, particularly for recording the work of performers, teachers and traditional art communities.


==Books==
==Books==
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* ''Kuchipudi Vythalikudu'' – Telugu
* ''Kuchipudi Vythalikudu'' – Telugu


According to biographical accounts, more than 10,000 complimentary copies of these publications were distributed.{{citation needed}}
According to biographical accounts, more than 10,000 complimentary copies of these publications were distributed.


==Advocacy for cultural documentation and intellectual property==
==Advocacy for cultural documentation and intellectual property==


Kumar has advocated greater awareness of [[copyright]] and [[intellectual property]] issues in the performing arts.{{citation needed}}
Kumar has advocated greater awareness of copyright and intellectual property issues in the performing arts.


His work in this area has focused on the documentation of choreography, musical compositions, photographs, articles, archival recordings and other cultural material, while promoting appropriate attribution to creators and custodians.{{citation needed}}
His work in this area has focused on the documentation of choreography, musical compositions, photographs, articles, archival recordings and other cultural material, while promoting appropriate attribution to creators and custodians.


He has also supported the creation of cultural archives and documentation systems intended to preserve performing-art traditions for researchers, students and future generations.{{citation needed}}
He has also supported the creation of cultural archives and documentation systems intended to preserve performing-art traditions for researchers, students and future generations.


==Awards and recognition==
==Awards and recognition==


Kumar and organizations associated with him have reportedly received a number of awards and recognitions for contributions to Indian culture and performing arts. These include:{{citation needed}}
Kumar and organizations associated with him have received a number of awards and recognitions for contributions to Indian culture and performing arts. These include:


* '''Republic Day Excellence Award''' – Government of Andhra Pradesh
* '''Republic Day Excellence Award''' – Government of Andhra Pradesh
Line 177: Line 252:
* '''Jayadev Excellency Award'''
* '''Jayadev Excellency Award'''
* '''Ugadi Puraskar State Award''' – Government of Andhra Pradesh
* '''Ugadi Puraskar State Award''' – Government of Andhra Pradesh
{{citation needed}}


==Contribution to performing arts==
==Contribution to performing arts==


Kumar's activities have included performance, choreography, dance education, theatre, cultural publishing, festival organization and institutional development. Through NMDA, FCDFO, ITDC, ''The Dance India'' and various dance festivals, he has worked on programmes related to the promotion and documentation of Indian classical and traditional arts.{{citation needed}}
Kumar's activities have included performance, choreography, dance education, theatre, cultural publishing, festival organization and institutional development. Through NMDA, FCDFO, ITDC, ''The Dance India'' and various dance festivals, he has worked on programmes related to the promotion and documentation of Indian classical and traditional arts.
 
His initiatives have particularly focused on providing platforms for younger artistes, organizing cultural festivals, documenting performing-art traditions and encouraging interaction between established artists and emerging performers.{{citation needed}}
 
==See also==
 
* [[Kuchipudi]]
* [[Indian classical dance]]
* [[Vempati Chinna Satyam]]
* [[Andhra University]]
* [[Indian classical music]]
* [[Performing arts in India]]


==References==
His initiatives have particularly focused on providing platforms for younger artistes, organizing cultural festivals, documenting performing-art traditions and encouraging interaction between established artists and emerging performers.
{{Reflist}}


==External links==
<!-- Add only official websites or reliable external links.
Avoid PR, social-media and promotional links unless relevant. -->


{{Authority control}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Kumar, Vikram B R}}
[[Category:Indian male classical dancers]]
[[Category:Kuchipudi exponents]]
[[Category:Indian choreographers]]
[[Category:Indian theatre directors]]
[[Category:Indian arts administrators]]
[[Category:Indian editors]]
[[Category:Andhra University alumni]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Living people]]

Latest revision as of 13:07, 2 September 2026


Vikram Kumar B R


Full Name: Vikram Kumar B R

Also Known As: Bathina Vikram Goud

Nationality: Indian

Profession: Kuchipudi Artiste, Choreographer, Theatre Director, Editor, Cultural Organizer

Education: Master of Arts in Kuchipudi, Andhra University; Diplomas in Acting and Direction

Known For: Kuchipudi, Classical Dance Festivals, Cultural Documentation and Arts Promotion

Organization: Nataraj Music and Dance Academy (NMDA)

Position: Founder-President, Nataraj Music and Dance Academy

Founded: Nataraj Music and Dance Academy, 2000

Major Initiatives: Vysakhi Nrithyotsav, Bharat Nrithyotsav, Nataraj Nrithyotsav, Jathis Music & Dance Festival, Amaravathi Nrithyotsav

Other Initiatives: FCDFO, International Traditional Dance Congress (ITDC), The Dance India

Publication: The Dance India

Editorial Role: Editor-in-Chief, The Dance India

Art Form: Kuchipudi and Indian Traditional Performing Arts

Notable Productions: Chenchu Lakshmi Narasimha Kalyanam, Swachh Ganga – Swachh Bharat, Maha Visakha Vaibhavam, Sri Krishna Leelalu

Awards: Republic Day Excellence Award, Best Promoter of Indian Culture Award, International Dance Congress Excellency Award, Rastreeya Kala Poshak Samman, Naatya Kala Poshaka Award, Jayadev Excellency Award, Ugadi Puraskar State Award

Vikram Kumar B R, also known as Bathina Vikram Goud, is an Indian Kuchipudi artiste, choreographer, theatre director, cultural organizer, editor and arts administrator. He is the founder-president of the Nataraj Music and Dance Academy (NMDA) and has been associated with the promotion, documentation and preservation of Indian classical and traditional performing arts.

Early life and education

Kumar developed an interest in performing arts during childhood and received encouragement from his father.

He studied Kuchipudi academically and obtained a Master of Arts degree in Kuchipudi with distinction from Andhra University . During his association with the university, he was involved in activities connected with the establishment and development of its Department of Dance.

As part of his postgraduate studies, Kumar conducted research on Siva Thandavam and Saptha Thandavam in the Kuchipudi tradition. His academic work included a comparative study involving the literary works of Telugu poet Puttaparthi Narayanacharyulu .

Kumar also completed diplomas in Acting and Direction from Andhra University. He was associated with the university's Department of Theatre Arts for approximately ten years and participated in mythological, social and philosophical theatrical productions.

Dance and choreography

Kumar has worked as a performer and choreographer in Kuchipudi and has created dance productions combining classical dance, theatrical presentation and traditional narratives.

Among his productions is Chenchu Lakshmi Narasimha Kalyanam, a thematic ballet based on traditions associated with Lord Narasimha of Simhachalam . The production combines elements of Kuchipudi with folk performance traditions and has been staged at more than 150 venues in India.

Another production, Swachh Ganga – Swachh Bharat, was inspired by Bhagiratha Vilasam and used classical dance to address environmental themes, including water conservation and cleanliness.

Other choreographed productions associated with Kumar include:

  • Maha Visakha Vaibhavam
  • Sri Krishna Leelalu
  • Society for Future
  • Youth Never Sleeps

Nataraj Music and Dance Academy

In 2000, Kumar founded the Nataraj Music and Dance Academy (NMDA), an organization engaged in teaching and promoting Indian classical performing arts.

The academy provides training in Kuchipudi and conducts cultural programmes, competitions, festivals and other initiatives related to dance, music and visual arts.

NMDA is ISO-certified and is a member of the International Dance Council (CID).

Kumar serves as the academy's founder-president. Through NMDA, he has been involved in organizing festivals intended to provide performance opportunities to established as well as emerging classical dancers.

Dance festivals and cultural initiatives

Kumar has established and organized several dance festivals and cultural programmes through NMDA and associated organizations.

Vysakhi Nrithyotsav

The Vysakhi Nrithyotsav was established in 2008 as an All-India classical dance festival. It brings together performers representing various Indian classical dance traditions.

Bharat Nrithyotsav

The Bharat Nrithyotsav was launched in 2010 as a platform for presenting Indian classical dance and encouraging interaction between Indian and international performers.

Nataraj Nrithyotsav

Established in 2012, the Nataraj Nrithyotsav was created as a festival focusing particularly on male classical dancers.

Naatya Tharang Sangeeth Nrithyotsav

The Naatya Tharang Sangeeth Nrithyotsav was introduced in 2012 as a recurring music and dance performance series.

Sathyabhama Yuva Nrithyotsav

The Sathyabhama Yuva Nrithyotsav, established in 2013, focuses on providing opportunities to younger dancers and emerging performers.

Jathis Music & Dance Festival

The Jathis Music & Dance Festival was developed as a multi-city cultural programme intended to increase access to classical performing arts in different regions.

Amaravathi Nrithyotsav

The Amaravathi Nrithyotsav was launched in 2015 and has included classical, tribal and folk performing traditions.

Other festivals

Other festivals and performance initiatives associated with Kumar include:

  • Jathis International Dance Festival
  • Amrapali Online Nrithyotsav
  • Siddartha Online Nrithyotsav
  • Chennai Margazhi Nrithyotsav
  • Mysore Dasara Nrithyotsav

These programmes have featured senior performers, young artistes and recipients of national honours in Indian performing arts.

Federation of Classical Dance Festival Organisers

Kumar has been associated with efforts to establish and develop the Federation of Classical Dance Festival Organisers (FCDFO).

The federation was conceived as a common platform for organizers of Indian classical dance festivals. Its stated objectives include improving cooperation among festival organizers, sharing resources and knowledge, developing performance opportunities for artistes and supporting the wider classical dance festival community.

FCDFO has also proposed programmes for younger artistes, including scholarships and fellowships intended to support continued education and professional development in classical dance.

International Traditional Dance Congress

Kumar is also associated with the International Traditional Dance Congress (ITDC), an initiative focused on traditional and classical dance practices.

The congress was conceived as a platform where performers, teachers, scholars, students and cultural representatives could participate in activities including:

  • Dance performances
  • Workshops
  • Seminars
  • Academic paper presentations
  • Competitions
  • Collaborative dance productions

A large-scale collaborative presentation known as Maha Brunda Nrityam has also been associated with ITDC activities.

The congress aims to combine performance with research, documentation, pedagogy and discussions about the preservation and transmission of traditional dance practices.

The Dance India

Kumar founded and serves as editor-in-chief of The Dance India, an English-language cultural publication devoted to Indian dance and performing arts.

The publication covers subjects including:

  • Indian classical dance
  • Folk and traditional arts
  • Profiles of performers and gurus
  • Performance reviews
  • Cultural history
  • Academic and scholarly articles

The publication is registered with RNI and has an ISSN. It has also been reported to reach more than 650 libraries in India.

Kumar has described documentation as an important component of cultural preservation, particularly for recording the work of performers, teachers and traditional art communities.

Books

Kumar has been associated with the publication of biographical works about Kuchipudi dancer and choreographer Vempati Chinna Satyam.

These include:

  • The Reformer – English
  • Kuchipudi Vythalikudu – Telugu

According to biographical accounts, more than 10,000 complimentary copies of these publications were distributed.

Advocacy for cultural documentation and intellectual property

Kumar has advocated greater awareness of copyright and intellectual property issues in the performing arts.

His work in this area has focused on the documentation of choreography, musical compositions, photographs, articles, archival recordings and other cultural material, while promoting appropriate attribution to creators and custodians.

He has also supported the creation of cultural archives and documentation systems intended to preserve performing-art traditions for researchers, students and future generations.

Awards and recognition

Kumar and organizations associated with him have received a number of awards and recognitions for contributions to Indian culture and performing arts. These include:

  • Republic Day Excellence Award – Government of Andhra Pradesh
  • Best Promoter of Indian Culture Award – Public Relations Society of India (PRSI)
  • Best NGO Making Contribution to CSR – presented at the 39th PRSI National Convention
  • International Dance Congress Excellency Award
  • Rastreeya Kala Poshak Samman
  • Naatya Kala Poshaka Award
  • Jayadev Excellency Award
  • Ugadi Puraskar State Award – Government of Andhra Pradesh

Contribution to performing arts

Kumar's activities have included performance, choreography, dance education, theatre, cultural publishing, festival organization and institutional development. Through NMDA, FCDFO, ITDC, The Dance India and various dance festivals, he has worked on programmes related to the promotion and documentation of Indian classical and traditional arts.

His initiatives have particularly focused on providing platforms for younger artistes, organizing cultural festivals, documenting performing-art traditions and encouraging interaction between established artists and emerging performers.