Grace, Bhakti, and Brilliance: Shreya Rajinikanth’s Arangetram

August 9, 2025 |Andover High School, MA

Shreya's Arangetram was a resplendent showcase of devotion, discipline, and deep artistic maturity. A disciple of Guru Smt. Preethi Ramesh, Shreya ascended the stage at the J. Everett Collins Center for the Performing Arts with poise and confidence, presenting a vibrant Margam that transported the audience into the spiritual and expressive world of Bharatanatyam.

From the very first offering, Pushpanjali, her reverence for the divine, her Guru, and the sacred stage was evident. Srivilliputhur Andal Kavuthuvam radiated bhakti, while the Jatiswaram displayed rhythmic clarity and energetic precision.

The centerpiece of the evening was the Varnam – Devar Munivar, a grand and majestic depiction of the ten Avatars of Lord Vishnu. This demanding piece required not only stamina and technical strength, but also a profound understanding of expression and storytelling. Shreya delivered a stupendous performance, moving seamlessly through each Avatar: from Matsya and Kurma to Narasimha, Krishna, and Rama, capturing the essence of divine strength, protection, and compassion. Her transitions between nritta and abhinaya were effortless, and her confident stage presence elevated the already powerful composition. 

A deeply touching highlight was “Enna Thavam Seithanai”, a heartfelt portrayal of the sacred bond between mother Yashoda and baby Krishna. For Shreya, this piece holds a special place in her heart. As she immersed herself in the composition, she discovered not just the richness of bhakti, but also a deep personal connection, reflecting her own love for her mother and the nurturing grace that Bharatanatyam so beautifully embodies. Her emotive expressions left the auditorium still and spellbound.

Equally captivating was her performance of “Devi Neeye Thunai”, in which she portrayed the divine strength and beauty of Madurai Meenakshi – Meena Lochani, the fish-eyed goddess. The dignity, serenity, and inner power of the Devi were brought alive through Shreya’s poised abhinaya and graceful movement.

In Pradosha Samayidi, she unleashed the cosmic power of Shiva’s tandavam with arresting dynamism, while the vibrant Thillana in Kadanakuthuhalam served as a jubilant farewell to the recital, brimming with joy, rhythm, and devotion.

Shreya’s journey from learning adavus at age six to commanding the stage with such refinement is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and love for the art. A gifted dancer and a compassionate, grounded individual, Shreya balances her artistic pursuits with academic excellence and community service. Her observership at Ramachandra Medical College, volunteer service at Saint Joseph’s Hospital, and mentorship of younger dancers all speak to her multidimensional character.

What made this Arangetram all the more extraordinary was the quiet, powerful thread that ran through it, the beautiful synergy between Guru and Shishya, mother and daughter. Their connection infused the performance with warmth, trust, and shared purpose. The refinement we witnessed on stage was not only the result of rigorous training but also the reflection of years of shared devotion, discipline, and deep love for the art form. In every expression and every step, we could sense the grace of a Guru shaping her disciple, and the pride of a mother watching her daughter take flight.

The orchestra ensemble was exceptional, Guru Preethi Ramesh on nattuvangam, Rajesh Raveendran on vocals, Sudhaman Subramanian on mridangam, Nagarajan Veeramani on violin, and Bishoy Aniyan on flute. Their seamless collaboration with Shreya enriched every piece, offering strong rhythmic and melodic support that allowed her to shine.

We were also deeply honored by the presence of Senator Jamie Eldridge, representing the Middlesex and Worcester District, whose gracious attendance lent special significance to the occasion. Our sincere gratitude also to our esteemed Chief Guest, Guru Smt. Jeyanthi Ghatraju, a beacon of service and artistic excellence, for gracing the event.

As the Master of Ceremonies, I had the unique privilege of experiencing this Arangetram from up close, a front-row seat not just to the performance, but to the emotion, artistry, and love that filled the auditorium. It was a joy to witness the event unfold so beautifully and meaningfully. I feel truly thankful to have been a part of this cherished family celebration, and to contribute in a small way to such an unforgettable milestone.

In all, Shreya’s Arangetram was not just a performance, it was a heartfelt offering, a celebration of tradition, and a beautiful milestone in her artistic journey. We look forward to witnessing her continue to grow, inspire, and illuminate the stage for years to come.

May Shreya continue to uphold the rich legacy of the Vazhuvoorar bani with grace and dedication, emerging as a proud torchbearer of this divine art. May she bring honor to her revered Guru, her cherished school, and above all, to her mother, who has passed on this tradition with love, discipline, and unwavering devotion. 

– Ramya Srinivasan
Master of Ceremonies

Ensemble

Nattuvangam: Guru Preethi Ramesh

Vocal: Rajesh Raveendran

Mridangam: Sudhaman Subramanian

Violin: Nagarajan Veeramani

Flute: Bishoy Aniyan
 

Credits

MC: Ramya Srinivasan

Makeup: Anu Metra

Photography: Jeyakumar Sathyamoorthy

Video: Krish Velmurugan

Light and Sound:  Mark

Event Decorator: Anitha Athipathi

Brochure Design: Lavanya Selvaraj

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