Profile
Dr. Sreedhara Akkihebbalu is a multifaceted artist and accomplished physician who has seamlessly integrated his medical career with a deep passion for the classical arts. A distinguished Bharatanatyam dancer, Dr. Sreedhara was trained under the revered gurus Sangeet Natak Academy awardee Smt. Narmada and Padmabhushan Smt. Kalanidhi Narayanan, and he holds the unique distinction of being the first male dancer from Karnataka to achieve the status of ATop Grade Soloist for Television by Prasar Bharati, Government of India.
As the founder and president of Kaveri Natya Yoga, established in 2006, he has dedicated himself to promoting the Pandanallur style of Bharatanatyam and Iyengar Yoga in the United States, particularly in Texas. Dr. Sreedhara's artistic vision has led to the creation of numerous acclaimed productions, including "Ramayana," "Shakti," "Radha Madhava," "Vikramorvashiyam," “Purandara Dasa”, “Yoga Vibhuti”, “Gita Govinda”, “Shataka Traya” which have resonated with audiences both in India and the U.S.
In addition to his choreographic achievements, Dr. Sreedhara is highly regarded for his work in music composition, having recorded and released a significant body of work specifically tailored for Bharatanatyam dance. His recordings of compositions by eminent composers such as Jayachamrajendra Wodeyar, Padmacharan, and traditional Kannada Javalis have become invaluable resources for professional dancers worldwide.
These compositions, which were premiered in Bengaluru and Mysuru, reflect his deep commitment to preserving and innovating classical dance and music. Through these contributions, Dr. Sreedhara not only enriches the artistic practice of his students and peers but also enhances the broader cultural landscape, making his work integral to the continued vibrancy of Bharatanatyam.