The air at the Bharatiya Temple of Troy still feels charged with the sacred energy of this past weekend. On Saturday, March 28, 2026, our HTR family gathered for Tandav 2026, a full-length dramatic dance presentation that was so much more than a recital—it was an offering
.From the smallest feet taking their first rhythmic steps to our seasoned alumni and graduates returning to the stage, the evening was a beautiful testament to the “endless ocean of knowledge” that defines our institution. Seeing our students embody the strength and grace of Bharata Natyam reminds us all of the spiritual bridge this art form builds between the earthly and the divine.
A Legacy of Grace: Our Guru
At the heart of this masterpiece was our beloved Guru Smt. Sudha Chandra Sekhar. With over 70 years of focused dedication to the science of dance, our 85-years-YOUNG “Sudha Aunty” continues to inspire us with her vision, having provided the concept, choreography, and nattuvangam for the entire production.
We are eternally grateful for the lineage she carries and shares with us—a lineage rooted in the prestigious Sri Rajarajeshwari Bharata Natya Kala Mandir in Mumbai, India. We bow to her gurus and the great artists who shaped the foundation upon which HTR stands today.
The Vidyanjali Orchestra
The evening was elevated by the soul-stirring live accompaniment of the Vidyanjali Orchestra. Their music provided the heartbeat for our dancers:
- Nattuvangam: Guru Smt. Sudha Chandra Sekhar
- Vocals: Vidya Sekhar and Gopal Venkataraman
- Violin: Akshaya Rajkumar
- Mridangam: S. Jeyasingham and Abi Jeyasingham
- Veena: Prabha Thayalan
- Flute: Shreya Swaminathan
With Deep Gratitude
An HTR production is truly a family labor of love. We want to extend our deepest thanks to:
- The Dancers: For your discipline, your hard work, and your beautiful smiles.
- The Parents: For the countless hours of driving to and from rehearsals, the costume pinning, and your unwavering support of your children’s cultural journey.
- The Teachers: For your incredible patience, respect, and devotion to the art.
- The Volunteers & Donors: Who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure every detail was handled.
As we look back on Tandav 2026, we are filled with “Nritya Sudha”—the pure nectar of dance. Thank you for being part of our rhythm.
Nritya Sudha's Hindu Temple Rhythms 