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Senior Kuchipudi dancer and founder of the Kuchipudi Art Academy in Chennai, Dr. Vempati Chinna Satyam turned 80 recently.
His birthday was celebrated in grand manner at the Narada Gana Sabha in Chennai on October 29.

Guru Vempati Chinna Satyam brought the dance from the village of Kuchipudi out to the world and has been imparting training to many young people in the art.
Many artists in the world of cinema including Vyjayantimala Bali and Hema Malini learnt the art from him.

His students, admirers and the family of Vempati Chinna Satyam decided to celebrate the guru's 80th birthday in a grand manner.
His students performed a Guru Pooja to their teacher on that day followed by a tribute in dance.

K. Viswanath presided over the function, Vyjayanthi Mala Bali was the guest of honour on the occasion. S. P. Balasubrahmanyam was the chief guest. Other popular personalities who attended the function include classical dancers C. V. Chandrasekhar, Padma Subrahmanyam, actors Hema Malini, Anjali Devi, Sharada, singers S. Janaki, Vani Jayaram.


Read an interview with guru Vempati Chinna Satyam at http://www.kutcheribuzz.com/features/interviews/vempatti.asp

Read report on Kuchipudi Dance festival at - http://www.kutcheribuzz.com/features/column/vempattikuchipudifest.asp