Cultural Representation Through the Arts
Anuradha is an Austin icon whose impact on the local arts and culture is now expanding on the global scene. The Austin Chronicle included her in their list of Movers and Shakers for her body of work and contributions to the local dance scene. Mayor Adler acknowledged Anuradha for her 25 years of work in the Austin community with Austin Dance India. Her ability to straddle effortlessly between ancient Indian dance to Texas folk music to global development projects makes Anuradha a sought after speaker, performer, and collaborator.
Raised by art-loving Indian parents in Canada, Anuradha has the best of many worlds. Her western upbringing along with her traditional training in India and deep-rooted spirituality make her a unique teacher and performer who connects with people from across the globe. She relates easily to both ancient and contemporary cultural and artistic traditions and has been performing worldwide for over 35 years. She is a 2018 inductee into the Austin Arts Hall of Fame for her contributions to the dance field. In 1989 she was awarded the prestigious Jacqueline LeMieux Prize by the Canada Council, making her the only Indian classical dancer to receive this high honor. She has been given the title of Sringar Mani, “Artistic Jewel” from the Kal-Ke-Kalakaar Festival in Mumbai, Mayura Natya Tarakai, and International Nritya Shiromani award.
With an Honors BA in Philosophy and a Master of Fine Arts in Dance Ethnology, Anuradha combines artistry with scholarship. Numerous study grants and honors have allowed her to continue research and study of ancient Sanskrit texts. She received several grants from the Canada Council as well as the Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute. She has taught at numerous colleges and universities in Central Texas including University of Texas at Austin, St. Edward’s, Southwestern, and Austin Community College. Her expertise has been utilized on many juries including the Texas Commission on the Arts Young Masters Program and the Canada Council as well as community and college organizations.
