SHANMUGA SUNDARAM: A CELEBRATION OF BHARATANATYAM ARRIVES AT SUTRA HOUSE

KUALA LUMPUR, AUGUST 2026 — Sutra Foundation is set to present an evening celebrating the artistry and legacy of distinguished Bharatanatyam dancer and educator Shanmuga Sundaram at Sutra House, Kuala Lumpur, on 29 August 2026 at 8pm. The performance, held as part of the KamaRia Under the Stars series, will showcase an artiste whose more than three-decade journey in Indian classical dance has been shaped by discipline, devotion and a commitment to nurturing future generations of dancers.

A dedicated practitioner of the Vazhuvoor tradition of Bharatanatyam, Shanmuga Sundaram began his formal training at the age of 21 under the guidance of the late Guru Smt. K. J. Sarasa in Chennai. He continues to be guided by renowned Bharatanatyam exponent and Padma Shri award recipient Smt. Chitra Visweswaran, further strengthening his connection to the rich lineage and traditions of Indian classical dance.

Recognised as an ‘A’ Grade artiste by Doordarshan, India, Shanmuga Sundaram has performed and conducted workshops in numerous countries, including the United States, Malaysia, Singapore, South Africa, Dubai, Mauritius, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Italy and France. His performances are known for bringing together technical discipline, grace, devotion and spiritual depth, qualities that have established him as both a respected performer and dedicated educator.

For Sutra Foundation, presenting an artiste of Shanmuga Sundaram’s stature reflects its ongoing commitment to providing audiences with opportunities to experience classical Indian dance in an intimate and engaging setting. Sutra Foundation Chairman Datuk Ramli Ibrahim described Bharatanatyam as more than a vocabulary of movement, highlighting its connection to lifelong discipline, refinement and personal discovery.

Beyond the stage, Shanmuga Sundaram has dedicated much of his career to preserving the heritage of Bharatanatyam and developing young talent. Through his dance institution, Sarasalaya, he continues to train emerging dancers while carrying forward the artistic legacy of his guru, K. J. Sarasa. He also serves as Artistic Director of Sarasa Natya Mala, an annual festival held in honour of his revered teacher.

His contribution to the art form also extends to promoting greater inclusion within the classical arts. For the past five years, Shanmuga Sundaram has taught Bharatanatyam to members of the transgender community, providing opportunities for artistic expression, confidence and empowerment. His approach reflects his belief that dance should be accessible to everyone and that classical arts can create meaningful spaces for belonging, equality and human connection.

With more than 30 years of experience, Shanmuga Sundaram’s appearance in Kuala Lumpur represents more than a traditional dance performance. It offers audiences an opportunity to experience how Bharatanatyam continues to evolve as a living art form, carrying its traditions forward while allowing each generation to bring its own experiences and perspectives to the stage.

For audiences already familiar with Bharatanatyam, the performance provides an opportunity to witness the artistry of an accomplished exponent of the Vazhuvoor tradition. For newcomers, it offers an introduction to a classical art form where movement communicates stories, rhythm expresses emotion and dance becomes a pathway to spiritual and artistic expression.

Shanmuga Sundaram performs at Sutra House, 12 Persiaran Titiwangsa 3, Kuala Lumpur, on 29 August 2026 at 8.00pm.

Entrance: By minimum donation
Enquiries: Sutra Foundation — 019 333 1092