Amaravati, November 28, 2025: Potnuru Vijaya Bharani Shenkar, a revered third-generation Kuchipudi exponent and guru, passed away on November 27 at his son's home in Yendada, Visakhapatnam, at the age of 75. Shenkar, a resident of Peda Waltair, is survived by his wife and son, both accomplished Kuchipudi artists, and leaves a profound void in Andhra Pradesh's cultural landscape.
His death marks the end of an era for the Vempati Pedda Satyam style he championed, having dedicated nearly six decades to nurturing talent through national and international performances.
Born into a family immersed in Indian classical arts, Shenkar trained under the legendary Vempati Pedda Satyam and Vempati Chinna Satyam in Chennai starting in 1962. In 1982, he established his dance academy in Visakhapatnam, introducing the Pedda Satyam lineage to the region and mentoring generations of dancers.
His contributions extended beyond teaching; Shenkar's troupe toured globally, blending Harikatha, Bharatanatyam, and Kuchipudi to showcase Telugu heritage.
Recognized with prestigious honors like Nrityaka Tapasvi, Natya Kala Prapurna, Kala Ratna, and the Central Sangeet Natak Akademi's 1997 award as a second-generation national Kuchipudi guru, Shenkar's work transcended stages.
