I would like to state that what has happened in Kalakshetra over the last few weeks has hurt every artist in India. Kalakshetra is not a dance school; it is a body of art and aesthetics. Leela Samson, over the last seven years, has transformed what was for over a decade a dead institution into a vibrant, contemporary yet traditional body of fine arts. Whether it is the curriculum, performances, workshops, arts and crafts or serious engagement with the arts, Ms Samson made Kalakshetra a serious, sensitive and bold organisation. The institution from being a secluded body is today inclusive and open, where the best in every field of Indian art is welcome and every lover of art feels privileged to be part of this body. It was only because of her vision, strength and integrity that she achieved so much in such a short time as director. It is essential that Kalakshetra continues to have her leadership and therefore imperative that the Ministry of Culture reinstate her as the director.
I am not aware of the inner workings of the institution but I can say that every problem can be faced and dealt with as a collective unit if all the people behind the organisation so wish. Therefore I urge everybody involved to come together and make way for her return for the sake of Kalakshetra and its future.
T.M. Krishna,
Chennai
Keywords: Leela Samson, Kalakshetra