ATA conveys condolences on the demise of Kuchipudi Legend Dr. Vempati Chinna Satyam

                                
American Telugu Association (ATA) expressed deep condolences on the demise of the Kuchipudi Legend, Sri. Vempati Chinna Satyam garu. ATA is gratified by the fact that they were able to recognize the Kuchipudi Legendary GURU during ATA convention on July 7th, 2012 at Atlanta (USA) with "ATA Lifetime Achievement Award" for his contribution to the Kuchipudi Nritya Art and for keeping alive an old art which is now passed on to the new generation of Americans of Indian origin. He was felicitated by ATA in Chennai with a live telecast during the prime time of ATA conference. It was an honor for ATA that Sri Chinna Satyam garu accepted this award which has elevated the ATA Life Time Achievement Award to a higher level bench mark for future awardees.

Sri Vempati Chinna Satyam garu was born in Kuchipudi, Andhra Pradesh, India where the famous Kuchipudi dance was originated. Dr. Vempati was the GURU of Kuchipudi dance and he was instrumental in popularizing the dance all over the world. He refined the art form, bringing it completely within the boundaries of Natya Shastra and gave it a whole new perspective. Dr. Vempati started the Kuchipudi Art Academy at Madras in the year 1963. The academy has to its credit more than 180 solo items and 15 dance dramas composed and choreographed by Dr. Vempati Chinna Satyam. These solo items and dramas have been staged all over the Globe.

Dr. Vempati Chinna Satyam received many prestigious awards in India and abroad. He was honored with a Doctorate degree by Andhra University. He was also awarded the Padma Bhushan by the Government of India. ATA was pleased to recognize and honor one of our own for his lifetime accomplishments in performing arts - Kuchupudi with "Lifetime Achievement for Performing Arts Award".

ATA Lifetime Achievement Award Presentation to Sri. Vempati Chinna Satyam garu:
www.youtube.com/watch