The Iconic Doyen Whose Majestic Style No Longer Lights the Stage

Yamini Krishnamurthi, a leading Bharatnatyam performer from India, passed away yesterday, marking the conclusion of an era.

The demise of Yamini Krishnamurthi sheds light on the golden period of Indian classical art forms – a time when they had shifted from temples to a broader audience.

During the 1960s and 1970s, state support enabled arts and artists to flourish and become the standard-bearers of India’s cultural legacy. Yamini Krishnamurthy emerged as one of the most prominent ambassadors.

Born into a family of Sanskrit scholars with her father as her primary supporter and mentor, Krishnamurthi was destined for the stage. And on the stage, Krishnamurthy captivated her admirers.

Recalling her contemporary with affection, Padma Vibhushan Sonal Mansingh, remarked, “Yamini Krishnamurthy had the ability to evoke emotions in her audiences with her enchanting allure and stage presence. Her passing marks the end of a splendid era in Indian classical dance.”

Blessed with expressive eyes, profound knowledge of the art form, and a commanding presence on stage, Krishnamurthy was a pioneer. “Yamini Krishnamurthy was a heavenly nymph from Gandharva Loka who descended to earth to mesmerize everyone with her dance.

Her dance was so powerful that it transformed anyone who witnessed it. She embodied dance, she breathed dance. Her performances, characterized by elegance, precision, and emotional depth, enthralled audiences and earned her recognition both nationally and internationally,” noted Bharatnatyam dancer Padmashri Pratibha Prahlad.

She was among the few artists who had successfully mastered various dance forms, including the lyrical Odissi style. In addition to her proficiency in multiple dance styles, Krishnamurthy was also trained in Carnatic vocal music and the Veena.

Arguably, her greatest contribution to Indian classical art was in raising awareness for Bharatnatyam and Kuchipudi – dance forms that were predominantly associated with the South. Artists like Krishnamurthy paved the way for future generations to embrace Indian dance forms.

Today, an increasing number of young people are embracing Indian arts, both in India and overseas. India’s cultural influence – built on its capacity to promote cultural diplomacy globally – is a result of stalwarts like Krishnamurthy who popularized the art form. Bharatnatyam stands as one of the most sought-after dance styles worldwide.

Krishnamurthy, who received the Padma Vibhushan and Sangeet Natak Academy awards, was the youngest recipient of the Padma Shri at the age of 28. Immersed in her art, Yamini Krishnamurthy established her institute in Hauz Khas. The author underwent a decade of training under her guidance and completed her ‘aarangetram’.

Like Balasaraswati and Kelucharan Mohapatra, Yamini Krishnamurthy was a once-in-a-generation artist. Lord Nataraja smiles upon the high priestess of dance as she leaves behind a significant void.