Natya Kala Mandhir is set to celebrate its Golden Jubilee with Potsabai, a grand Bharathanatyam production commemorating 50 years of dedication to classical Indian dance, spiritual storytelling and cultural preservation in Sri Lanka.
Founded on September 19, 1976, the institution has played a significant role in nurturing generations of dancers and promoting the traditions of Bharathanatyam both nationally and internationally.
A Legacy Led by a Distinguished Guru: The institution was founded and is directed by Smt. Vasugy Jegatheeswaran, who has received several distinguished titles and honours, including Kalasuri, Kalaimaamani, Aacharya Kala Sagara, Vishwa Rangaabhimanaya and Vanithaabhimaana.
She began her training under her mother, Smt. Vijayalakshmi Shanmugampillai, before further developing her artistic discipline under the renowned Bharathanatyam guru Padma Shri Adyar K. Lakshman.In addition to her work with Natya Kala Mandhir, Smt. Jegatheeswaran has served as a Senior Dance Teacher at the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Colombo, where she has guided more than 153 students through their Arangetram.
Her teaching has extended beyond performance, with an emphasis on discipline, humility, perseverance and an understanding of the spiritual and expressive dimensions of Bharathanatyam.
Taking Sri Lankan Dance to the World: Over its five-decade journey, Natya Kala Mandhir has represented Sri Lanka at numerous international cultural events, including programmes in India, Canada, Malaysia, South Africa and Bangladesh.Its major productions include Madurai Meenakshi, Shivleela, Shri Rama Raajyam, Krishnamirtham and Natya Vaibhavam. The institution has also had the opportunity to perform before several prominent dignitaries and public figures.
A Distinguished Record of RecognitionSmt. Jegatheeswaran’s contribution to the performing arts has been recognised through numerous awards and honours, including the Kalasuri award in 1990, the Bunka Award in 1997, Kalaimaamani in 2019 and Vishwa Rangaabhimanaya in 2024.She has also participated in major cultural events and festivals, including Natyanjali at Chidambaram, International Ramayana Festivals, Deepotsav in Ayodhya and Sri Lanka’s Independence Day celebrations.
Golden Jubilee Celebration: The Golden Jubilee production Potsabai is expected to bring together generations of disciples, collaborators and members of the artistic community who have contributed to the institution’s journey.
The production will feature the creative contribution of senior and junior disciples, together with professionals involved in stage design, sound, lighting and media.The event will be graced by Smt. Priyadarshani Govind, former Directress of Kalakshetra, India, as the Chief Guest.The Golden Jubilee presentation of Potsabai will be held on September 19, 2026, at Sri Manikka Pillayar Kalai Arangam, marking five decades of artistic dedication and the continued preservation of classical dance traditions in Sri Lanka.
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