SURAKSHA KODGI

Suraksha’s artistic journey began at the tender age of three when she was introduced to Bharatanatyam by Guru Kripa Baskaran, performing as a guest artist in the role of little Krishna. This early experience sparked a lifelong passion, leading to her formal initiation into the art form at age five under the guidance of Guru Kripa at the Natyarpana Dance Company. Over the years, Suraksha has graced the stage in more than 40 performances across both the United States and India, culminating in the successful completion of her milestone Bharatanatyam Arangetram in August 2022.

Today, Suraksha balances her rigorous academic pursuits as a pre-med student with her enduring dedication to the classical arts. She continues to deepen her own practice through regular advanced training with her Guru, while simultaneously giving back to the community as a part-time faculty member at Natyarpana, inspiring and teaching the next generation of dancers. Her commitment to music also remains vibrant, as she continues her violin journey as a member of her college orchestra. For Suraksha, dance and music remain an integral, lifelong part of her identity, and she aspires to continue exploring and contributing to these rich traditions for years to come

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In addition to dancing, Suraksha trained in Carnatic singing under Guru Smt. Srividya Yagnaraman and played violin in the Senior Symphony Orchestra and Chamber Orchestra at MYSO (Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra), Milwaukee. She beautifully marked her vocal journey by presenting her Carnatic Music Concert debut on December 10, 2022, which was shared with family, friends, and viewers worldwide via live stream.

Apart from the fine arts, Suraksha was actively involved in several school clubs, where she volunteered, led community projects, and displayed exceptional leadership throughout her academic career. Her leadership journey began early as the NJHS president in 8th grade, leading community projects within the Greater Milwaukee area. In high school, she served as the secretary for the Key Club, the Red Cross, and the WICA Youth Wing, striving to help others both locally and globally. She was also an active member of her student council for five consecutive years, making lasting contributions to her school community.

Alongside leadership, Suraksha excelled in public speaking. She placed first in numerous meets, including the state tournament in Middle School forensics. In High School, she became a medalist and national alternate for forensics, held the position of forensics Captain, and was a state qualifier in Varsity debate. Deeply interested in the sciences, she was also actively engaged in several STEM research organizations and served as her school's SMART Team Captain.

“The dream begins with a teacher who believes in you, who tugs and pushes and leads you to the next plateau, sometimes poking you with a sharp stick called ‘truth.'” – Dan Rather

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