Dance & Honour: An Evening of Classical Elegance

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India] March 18: The enthralling symphony of art and accolades unfolded with the ‘LAAVANYAM – Arts & Awards’ event, meticulously crafted by the eminent dance and music haven, LIOTA, nestled in the artistic enclave of Vidyavihar West, Mumbai. A concept conceived and nurtured by the visionary Natyacharya Smt. Shashi Ramesh and the illustrious Vidwan Shri Sivaprasad NN, to pay a rich tribute to virtuosos whose creative imprints have embellished both the tapestry of art and the fabric of society.

In a resplendent evening, LIOTA’s commitment to cultivating brilliance in its students was vividly on display. The event captured the audience in a spellbinding spectacle presided over by Chief Guest Abhanga Ratna Shri Ganesh Kumar. The stage was graced by nearly 50 artists, embellished by the harmonious notes of a live orchestra and adorned by esteemed faculty Dipali T & Madhushree K from LIOTA. Guest artists, such as the captivating Harish Kumar from Mysore and the enchanting Aarya Deshpande, added an extra layer of brilliance with captivating renditions in Odissi, Hindustani Vocals, and Bharatanatyam.

Beyond the applause, the awards ceremony resonated with a deeper purpose – to honour not just artistic excellence but also to pay homage to those who have demonstrated unwavering commitment and innovation in their respective domains. The coveted title of “Nriyta Laavanyam” found its deserving recipients in Pandit Shri Venugopal Pillai and Vidushi Smt. Jayshree Pillai, whose awe-inspiring choreography has become a beacon in the realm of Bharatanatyam.

Vidushi Smt. Bombay Lakshmi Rajagopalan, a luminary in the world of Carnatic Music, was bestowed with the title “Swara Laavanyam” for her exceptional singing, a testament to her unique style that seamlessly intertwines spirituality into her renditions and adds her compositions to her repertoire. Guru Shri S V Ramachandran received the prestigious “Madhura Laavanyam” for his virtuosity on the violin & the Viola. Dr. Tanjavur Kesavan, the illustrious Delhi Kesavan, a virtuoso in percussion and creator of exceptional Jathis for Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi, was adorned with the “Tala Laavanyam” Award.

The “Hridaya Laavanyam” accolade was a heartfelt tribute to Dr. Swaroop Hegde, a compassionate healer who rendered unwavering medical service to over 2 lakh patients during the pandemic. Shri M K Patel was honoured with the “Karma Laavanyam” for his tireless efforts in providing platforms for artists nationwide. The skilled makeup artists duo, Shri Anil Vasudevan & Ms Shyamala V, were lauded with the “Soundarya Laavanyam.” Suresh Muraleedharan, a maestro behind the lens, was bestowed with the “Lakshya Laavanyam” for his mesmerizing captures of performing dancers, immortalizing their vibrancy in a magnificent canvas for posterity. 

The soul-stirring orchestration, led by Sivaprasad NN with vocals for Bharatanatyam and Odissi, and the collaborative brilliance of Dr. T Kesavan on Mrudangam, Shashi Ramesh on Nattuvangam, Narayan Iyyer on Morsing, G Ramprasad on Mardal, Krishnan Natarajan on Violin, Nandakumar on flute, and Dhruv Balajiwale on Tabla, added to the magical aura of the evening. The charismatic master of ceremonies, Hansdev Sharma, a luminary in the world of acting and writing, gracefully partnered with the captivating Avantika Mathure, guiding the audience through a mesmerizing journey.

The ‘LAAVANYAM- Arts & Awards’ event, held on the 17th of February 2024, in Ghatkopar, Mumbai, was more than a celebration; it was a testament to the sublime artistry and the promising talents nurtured under the wings of LIOTA. The academy expressed profound gratitude to patrons like Krishna Srinivasan and O. Neelakandhan, along with the digital partner IB Webtech and Shrutilaya Fine Arts SFA, for hosting this mesmerizing Arts & Awards show. As LIOTA continues its dedicated journey in promoting and propagating Indian culture and fine arts, it proudly stands as the fastest-growing centre in the vibrant vicinity of Vidyavihar, Ghatkopar, & Kurla.

For those seeking the essence of Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Kathak, Mohiniattam, Karnatik & Hindustani Vocals, Keyboard, and Expressive Arts Therapy, both online and offline training avenues await your discovery. For inquiries, immerse yourself in the world of LIOTA by reaching out on

WhatsApp at 9820464229 or through email at unwind@liota.in.

Website: https://liota.in

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/liotaofficial/

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