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Siddhendra Yogi Biography In English
Early Life –
- Siddhendra Yogi was an extraordinary scholar and artist of the 14th century AD. During the Bhakti movement between the 11th and 13th centuries, the dance form of Kuchipudi saw a revolution.
- Siddhendra Yogi incorporated the dance principles of Natya Shastra, the bible of all Indian classical dance styles.
- He introduced aesthetic and stylized footwork with the use of traditional classical music.
- He adopted the existing form of Yakshagana folk dance dramas and gave it a new form. This renowned scholar and artist took the initiative to give this dance form a more distinctive look and grandeur.
- He amalgamated folk traditions and classical forms. He was not in favor of training women in this art form as he was of the opinion that women usually exaggerate the expressions and emotions, thus reducing the spiritual tone of the dance.
- Hence Kuchipudi during this period was dominated by male dancers, even as female roles were performed by men.
- Only young boys who lived a deeply religious and pious life were allowed to perform this art. It was usually passed from one generation to the next, from father to son.
- Siddhendra Yogi wrote the famous play “Bhamakalapam”. The play deals with the Hindu god, Lord Krishna and his consorts Satyabhama and Rukmini.
- According to a popular legend, Siddhendra Yogi composed a dance called Parijatapaharanam in praise of Lord Krishna after he was miraculously saved by the Lord from drowning in the river Krishna.
- He trained Brahmin youths to perform in this dance drama.
- The most famous part of the Kuchipudi repertoire – the Satyabhama Chakra was introduced by him.
- It is said to be the oldest known Kuchipudi dance drama. The present Kuchipudi dance form is said to have originated from the Nritya Natya tradition established by him, known as Bhagavata Mela Natakam.
