June 2017 \ Diaspora News \ ARTI MANEK
America’s Kathak Star

When in 2010 Arti Manek founded the Shankara Dance Academy (SDA) in the City of Brea in Orange County, little did she know that she would transform thousands of lives through Kathak...

It was in Cleveland, Ohio, that she had another one of life’s memorable moments. Pujya Shree Morari Bapu was giving a discourse on Ramayana Katha. Arti coordinated with Pujya Bapu and seamlessly blended spirituality and dance together. It was a one-of-a-kind event. An equally memorable and commendable event took place in Los Angeles too. Arti produced a Ram Charit Manas dance drama show exhibiting over 150 participants who ranged from the age of five to 72. They had never been on stage, nor had prior acting experience in their life. On this occasion as well Pujya Morari Bapu had courteously flown from India to specially be present and be the chief guest of honor. The audience was spellbound by the performance. A long standing ovation was testimony to the audience’s satisfaction and appreciation.

The word of the Ram Charit Manas show’s exquisite performance reached Toronto, Canada. Soon after, the Indian Association of Toronto (IAT) cordially invited Arti and her troupe to perform in Toronto. The IAC sponsored in totality. The same novice artistes managed to perform, far exceeding the audience’s expectations at the sold out Toronto show.

In keeping with spiritual themes, Arti went on to produce Gopala Kanaiya Krishna, training over a hundred and fifty performers. Her productions have showcased Arti’s passion and purpose, giving back to the children of Indian parents who otherwise would not be exposed to their spiritual and cultural heritage. The productions have helped create a robust network of friends and well-wishers that continues to thrive and grow. Many of Arti’s students have created and kept alive the Indian dance-drama activities on their own campuses during their higher education in American universities.




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