HONORS

Guru Smt. Srilatha Suri has given over 700 performances and mentored more than 300 students, guiding them in shaping their artistic identities while imparting the traditional values and techniques of classical dance. Numerous students under her tutelage have gone on to receive prestigious recognition both nationally and internationally.

With her guidance and encouragement, students of Natyanjali had the privilege of participating in the International Kuchipudi Convention and contributing to a Guinness World Record achievement.

She conceptualized, scripted, choreographed, and directed Meera, a Kuchipudi dance drama portraying the legendary saint-poet, as well as Shiva Ganga in California, USA, as a fundraiser for SiliconAndhra, among other productions.

Her dedication to the promotion and preservation of Kuchipudi was acknowledged by the Andhra Pradesh Government's Cultural Department Minister, Shri Vatte Vasanth Kumar, who honored her with a recognition award in 2010.

Mrs. Suri has also performed at TTD Nadaneerajanam with the blessings of Padma Shri Dr. Sobha Naidu.

She played a key role in conceptualizing, scripting, choreographing, directing, and sponsoring the inaugural theme song for TANTEX.

Committed to preserving the essence of the art, she imparts Natya Vedam and Natya Shastra to her students.

She has also organized groundbreaking Natya Shastra workshops—the first of their kind in the DFW area—bringing together teachers and students across various dance forms, including Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam.

As strong advocate for emerging artists, Mrs Suri actively identifies and nurtures local talent, offering them opportunities to showcase their artistry at Natyanjali events.

TITLES

  • Natya Visharada 
  • Nritya Bharathi 
  • Natya Mayuri 
  • Natya Kalapraporna 
  • Acharya Siromani 
  • Natya Kala Choodamani

OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY SERVICE

  • Promotion of Manabadi in Dallas
    Initiated and organized an event to promote Manabadi (Telugu language education in the U.S.) by Silicon Andhra. Raised funds, created awareness, and engaged the Telugu community in one of her most impactful community service initiatives.
  • Award from Mayor of Cupertino, CA
    For the Kuchipudi dance ballet Shiva Ganga, which she conceptualized, scripted, directed, and led. The production focused on the environmental issue of Ganges River contamination and was a fundraiser organized by Silicon Andhra.
  • Award from Mayor of Garland, TX
    Honored for her work on the ballet Meera, which she wrote, choreographed, directed, and performed. The piece told the story of 15th-century saint-poet Meera, and was a TANA-TANTEX fundraiser for AP flood relief. Her detailed recreation of period-accurate costumes and jewelry added authenticity and cultural richness to the production.

AWARDS

  • Appreciation Award (2012)
    Awarded by Padma Bhushan Dr. Akkineni Nageswara Rao for outstanding service to Kuchipudi art and social causes.
  • TANA Recognition Award (2012)
    Presented by TANA President Mr. Prasad Thotakura for contributions to the arts, culture promotion, and social service.
  • Natya Kala Choodamani (2012)
    In recognition of excellence and dedication in the field of Kuchipudi.
  • Acharya Siromani (2011)
    Conferred for her performance at a Sanatana Dharma fundraiser supporting the construction of Chatralayas for underprivileged students in India.
  • Natya Kalaprapoorna (2011)
    Awarded at a temple fundraiser for her cultural contributions and commitment to the performing arts.
  • Recognition Award (2010)
    Bestowed by the State Cultural Council and Department of Culture, Andhra Pradesh, India.
  • Natya Mayuri (2009)
    Presented by the Mayor of Garland, TX during a TANTEX-TANA fundraiser for the Andhra Pradesh Flood Relief Fund.
    Review on Narthaki.com
  • Special Recognition Award (2008)
    Given during a Kuchipudi Convention for contributions to the art form.
  • Special Recognition Award (2005)
    For dedicated service in promoting Kuchipudi.
  • Nritya Bharathi (2002)
    Conferred by Silicon Andhra and the Mayor of Cupertino, CA for promoting Kuchipudi in the U.S.
  • Natyavisharada (1984)
    Professional degree in Kuchipudi awarded by Padma Shri Dr. Sobha Naidu.
  • Diploma in Bharatanatyam (1980)
    Granted by the Government of Andhra Pradesh, India.