Guruji Prasanna Kasthuri, who created new record by dancing 24-hours marathon in 1986, has contributed to help build a soft power of Indian brand abroad since 1994. He has promoted India’s performing arts projects in USA, which introduced India’s heritage and culture to Westerners. He and his wife Seema Kasthuri introduced Kannadiga’s great literature wealth such as Kuvempus’ Beral ge koral, Masti avara chikka kathegalu, Pu.ti.na’s Gokula Nirgamana, ” and hundreds of compositions of Dasa and Sharana traditions to forefront. He showcased ancient dramas such as – Shoodraka’s “Mruchchakatika”, Elagovan’s “Silappadikkaram”, Aurobindo’s “Savitr” and Padmavibhushana Sriranga – “Kattale-Belaku”. Guruji was invited to perform in AKKA sammelana in 2008, 2010, 2012 and 2018.
Recently, Guruji Prasanna Kasthuri brought “Bharat Ki Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav” to St. Louis, USA, and engaged thousands of Indians celebrate 75 years of India’s Independence through “SAMARPAN – Saga of Indian freedom Struggle”. He engaged hundreds of people to act, dance, sing in this Indian patriotic theatrical production in USA on August 13″ 2022 at reputed Blanchet Touhill Auditorium, St. Louis, USA. It was watched by thousands in-person and online.
“Samarpan” is an artistic rendition of the Indian freedom struggle against British colonial rule. Planning of this production took 5 years of hard work. This was conceptualized, written, and directed by American based artist – Guruji Prasanna Kasthuri, the Artistic Director of Soorya Performing Arts, in St. Louis. Missouri State, USA. This production is unique because it focuses on the reason, effects, and solution to the Colonial aggression on Indian soil. It depicts events beginning from the 16th century, marking the arrival of the East India Company, weaving its way through the resistances in North-South, East-West, every part of India, culminating with the events that led to freedom in 1947. It reminds us of the not-to-be forgotten sacrifices of the brave men and women who fought valiantly to get India out of the shackles of British rule. This 4-hour long dance-music-theatre production is a glimpse into history like never before!
This production was an eye opener for Americans with information such as 2 million (20 Lakh) Indian soldiers waged war for Great Britain in the 2nd World War, which surprised many in American Media.
Now, Guruji Prasanna Kasthuri is bringing SAMARPAN – a beautiful mega patriotic production to his hometown – Bengaluru on August 11, 12 with four consecutive shows in Chowdaiah memorial hall,
Historical events showcased in Samarpan will be depicted in six languages (Kannada, Hindi, Telugu, Marathi, Tamil and Bengali) by more than 120 artists from India and USA. This mega dance drama is unique, as it uses the classical dance, music and theatre to honour India’s freedom fighters and brings awareness among youth as a continued education.
This event is co-ordinated by Shantala Arts Trust, a public charitable trust, under the guidance of veteran Guru Kalayogi Pulikeshi.
More than 10 different dance schools, theatre groups from Bengaluru are taking part. This is bringing many communities together to showcases their respect and gratitude towards the freedom fighters.
More details on http://www.shanthala.org
Tickets are available on https://in.bookmyshow.com/bengaluru/plays/samarpan-saga-of-indian freedom-struggle/ET00364932
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