MUMBAI, INDIA, February 8, 2004: The Elephanta caves on the outskirts of Mumbai play host to a unique festival each year. Kuchipudi advocates Dr. Raja Reddy and Radha Reddy performed at the two-day Elephanta festival, a favorite on Mumbai’s cultural calendar for the last 14 years. The sixth century bce caves on this island, 10 nautical miles from Mumbai, are a perfect backdrop for the classical dance and music on display here. Many artists consider it a privilege to perform here. “I have performed here when the festival began. This place is Lord Siva’s abode, The Lord of Dance. I feel blessed that I have such an opportunity,” says Dr. Reddy. A surprise for audiences was Yamini Reddy, the young daughter of Dr. Raja Reddy, who made her debut. The huge response of the audience, which had people from all over the world, only added to the charm of the performance.
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