Life through Rhythms

Explore a captivating TEDx talk that chronicles the transformative journey of Illeana Citaristi, an Italian-born dancer who found her calling in Indian classical dance forms. Discover how a young woman from a conservative Catholic family in Italy embarked on a path of self-discovery during the tumultuous college revolution days of the late 1970s. Follow Citaristi's evolution from a partially trained theatre artist to a renowned performer of Kathakali and Odissi dance. Learn about her experiences in India, where she studied under the guidance of Guru Kelu Charan Mohapatra and developed a unique approach to dance that synthesizes Eastern and Western influences. Gain insights into how Citaristi's artistic journey led her to explore the connection between body, mind, and spirituality through dance. Understand the power of art to transcend cultural boundaries and inspire others in an era of globalization. Delve into the accomplishments of this Padma Shri awardee, who has made significant contributions to dance, film, and literature, becoming a true embodiment of cultural fusion.