Kalaimamani Sridhar ARS Dance Academy, led by renowned choreographer Kalaimamani Sridhar and his daughter Akshadha Sridhar, successfully hosted ‘Dance Don 2’, a grand celebration of dance, at Vels Kalaiarangam in Chennai on July 25. The event was organised to inspire students while honouring the immense contributions of dance professionals who have shaped the industry over decades.
One of the major highlights of the event was the felicitation of 125 film choreographers who have contributed to Tamil cinema between 1973 and 2026. In addition, 38 dance school teachers from across all districts of Tamil Nadu were honoured for their dedication to nurturing young talent and sustaining the art form at the grassroots level. The evening also featured vibrant performances by students of the academy, which received widespread appreciation from the audience.
Speaking on the occasion, Sridhar Master emphasised the importance of recognising the contributions of choreographers across generations. He noted that many of these artists, including those who worked during the eras of iconic leaders such as M.G. Ramachandran and J. Jayalalithaa, have played a crucial role in shaping Tamil cinema’s dance legacy. He also highlighted the challenges faced by many choreographers and dance teachers today, expressing hope that such initiatives would bring them greater recognition and new opportunities.
Dance Don 2 ultimately stood as a heartfelt tribute to pioneers, veterans, and educators in the field of dance. By bringing together artists from different eras onto one stage, the event celebrated not just their achievements but also reinforced the importance of preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of dance in Tamil Nadu.