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VEMPATI
CHINNA SATYAM
 What
is the difference between Bhartanatyam and Kuchipudi?
There is not much difference except that in Kuchipudi we have more
emphasis on Angika Abhinayam (Expressions
through body movements). In Bharatanatyam, the expressions are subtler
and also there is more emphasis on footwork. Another difference
is that Kuchipudi has a slightly faster tempo than Bharatanatyam.
Otherwise the dance repertoire is the same.
Have you felt any discrimination as a male
dancer?
No. There is no such distinction in art. We are all equal. Of course,
at times it is difficult to do female roles, as a male dancer, but
I divide the parts that a male or female performs appropriately
so there is no such problem.
What do you think of the current trend in
the classical dance concert scene?
It is bad. You can get programmes only through recommendations.
Contacts play a key role in getting to the top. It is very difficult
to get sponsors. That is why we do few programmes. We are happy
if we perform twice or thrice a year. My students get performances
only on the basis of merit. Ultimately, only art will survive.
How do you fund your productions, specially
your performances abroad?
The Government pays 50% and the rest is taken care of by our sponsors
abroad. But many times we have to spend out of our pocket too. It
is extremely expensive, but we do it, for the sake of the art.
Could you briefly tell us about your Dance
Academy?
 The
Kuchipudi Dance Academy was started 36 years ago. The Academy’s
own building was inaugurated in 1990. It has dance halls, a broad-based
library, separate hostels for boys and girls. The Academy functions
as a residential school. Training is given in not only the practical
aspects of dance, but also in theory. We also teach music and Sanskrit.
We give a diploma only after four years of study. Our school has
poor and deserving students too. We take only those students who
are hard working and dedicated to the art. I don’t want my
institution to be bustling with students who dance half-heartedly.
How do you screen your students?
They should have a good personality and a good sense of rhythm.
The family background is also important. Above all, the student
should show interest in learning the art.
How important do you think are awards to an
artiste?
I personally do not attach importance to awards. I have received
the nation’s second highest award, but what is the use. It
is only for the name and prestige, otherwise, we do not get any
support from the Government. Government servants get pensions once
they retire, but what do we get? Nothing. If we injure ourselves
there is no insurance cover for us. We have to fend for ourselves.
It is very difficult for an artiste to survive. That is why very
few artistes make it their livelihood.
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