"ANITA SAYS..." podcast

24:02

In this April episode of the Anita Says podcast, I dive into why the March episode was a **silent podcast** and shed light on how AI has been misused by scammers to impersonate my personality and voice. I share my thoughts on the impact of AI in the arts, discussing both its creative potential and the ethical concerns surrounding its use. Additionally, I reflect on my March performances - sharing personal experiences from the stage, key takeaways, and behind-the-scenes insights. I also provide my observations and thoughts on the performances I watched, analyzing artistic interpretations, technique, and overall presentation. This episode is a blend of personal reflection, industry insights, and a critical discussion on AI’s evolving role in the world of performing arts. Tune in for an engaging conversation on creativity, technology, and the ever-changing artistic landscape.…

"ANITA SAYS..."

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Anita Says… Season 2 Episode 6 | March edition 2025 31:08

6 weeks ago31:08

31:08

The sounds of silence When voice, ideas, images, thoughts, notes and personal histories are hijacked and manipulated by AI, what are we left with? Ourselves – our minds – this invisible and ephemeral time bound entity. The Non-Podcast podcast is in solidarity with all artists and creative people, me included, who have been at the receiving end of the havoc and devastation caused by the unethical and unauthorised use by AI of a personal data for unscrupulous ends. Welcome to the March podcast of ANITA SAYS and listen – to nothing.…

"ANITA SAYS..."

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Anita Says… Season 2 Episode 5 | February edition 2025 27:52

9 weeks ago27:52

27:52

In this episode, we explore the powerful intersection of faith, dance, and legacy. From the transformative experience of performing at the MahaKumbh to the personal challenges dancers face, we hear from iconic figures like Shovana Narayan, Geeta Chandran, and Aditi Mangaldas. We also reflect on the evolving dance world, including Akram Khan’s global influence and the enduring impact of legends like Kumudini Lakhia. Tune in for a celebration of resilience, artistry, and the ever-changing landscape of Indian dance.…

"ANITA SAYS..."

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Anita Says… Season 2 Episode 4 | January edition 2025 30:08

14 weeks ago30:08

30:08

As we step into 2025, I take a moment to reflect on the year gone by—one filled with both challenges and moments of deep gratitude. 2024 marked a personal milestone for me—60 years since my Arangetram—and it was also a year of pause, introspection, and healing after a broken bone forced me to slow down. But through travel, encounters with new art forms, and witnessing the evolving dance world, I’ve come to appreciate the immense power of resilience and reflection. In this episode, I share my experiences from the Serendipity Arts Festival, the rich cultural rituals of Kaisika Natakam , and my thoughts on the changing dynamics of classical dance. I also remember the indelible legacies of dance legends like Astad Deboo and Sunil Kothari, whose absence I still feel deeply. I reflect on the evolving space for classical dance, the challenge of staying true to tradition while embracing the modern world, and the lessons I’ve learned about mentorship, authenticity, and the importance of community in the life of an artist. As I look ahead to the future, I share my personal musings on how we can keep the heart of dance alive in these rapidly changing times. Tune in for a mix of inspiration, nostalgia, and insight as I continue to navigate my journey in the arts and life.…

"ANITA SAYS..."

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Anita Says… Season 2 Episode 3 | December edition 2024 31:29

19 weeks ago31:29

31:29

In this episode, I speak of tradition as a living, breathing entity—something that evolves, adapts, and yet remains anchored. In this episode, I reflect on the struggles of young dancers navigating the pressures of social media, the need for critical mentorship, and how we as senior artists must guide the next generation without losing sight of our roots. The arts are not static—they are resilient, relevant, and ever-changing.…

"ANITA SAYS..."

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Anita Says … Season 2 Episode 2 | November edition 2024 25:21

21 weeks ago25:21

25:21

In this November edition, I reflect on how dancers navigate today’s turbulent times. With political, financial, and health challenges, I emphasize the resilience artists need and the importance of staying true to our cultural roots. I call for solidarity among dancers, a commitment to inclusivity, and a renewed focus on introspection. Dance, I believe, is a sanctuary—a powerful response to adversity that reinforces personal and cultural strength.…

"ANITA SAYS..."

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Anita Says... Season 2 Episode 1 | October edition 2024 21:16

27 weeks ago21:16

21:16

Season 2 of the podcast begins in NYC and the ERASING BORDERS dance festival that marks its 17th season. The strong showing of Gen Z artistes are a sign of the many decades of work by the pioneering generation of dance elders who cleared the pathway in the 20th century for Indian dance to arrive on American main stages. Renowned Guru Chitra Visweswaran marks the 50th anniversary of her dance academy in Chennai As Yoga and Bharatanatyam move further away from their Indian cultural roots, how do purists view these new avatars? All this and more…

"ANITA SAYS..."

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Sonali Skandan on Indian Classical Dance: A New York Journey 19:18

30 weeks ago19:18

19:18

In this episode of Anita Says, we sit down with Sonali Skandan, a renowned Indian classical dancer and teacher based in New York City. Sonali takes us on a journey through her experiences of practicing, preserving, and promoting Bharatanatyam and other classical dance forms in one of the most diverse cities in the world. From her early inspirations to the challenges of maintaining cultural heritage in a modern metropolis, Sonali shares her unique perspective on what it means to be an artist navigating the intersection of tradition and innovation. We delve into her role in shaping the Indian classical dance scene in New York, her passion for teaching the next generation of dancers, and how she bridges cultures through her art. Whether you're a dance enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or someone curious about the vibrant intersection of East and West, this episode offers an inspiring look into the dedication and creativity that drive Sonali Skandan's journey. Tune in for an engaging conversation on the future of Indian classical dance in the West, the importance of community, and the ways art transcends boundaries in the heart of New York City.…

"ANITA SAYS..."

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Anita Says... Episode 12 | September edition 2024 27:08

32 weeks ago27:08

27:08

In this edition of the Anita Says podcast the topics discussed are the crushing costs of paying dance accompanists in India, how a ballet teacher in Mumbai displayed the qualities of a true mentor by not just training two talented contemporary dancers but also facilitating their further development overseas and the lovely Chennai Arangetram of a Chinese teenager from Beijing. Join us for the September edition of ANITA SAYS Produced by Kassiyet, New York City, USA https://www.instagram.com/kassiyet/ https://www.kassiyet.com Sound engineering by Baba L Prasad Recording studio Digi Sound Studios, Chennai, India https://www.instagram.com/digisoundstudio_/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anitaratnam.official Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@anitaratnam Website: https://www.anitaratnam.com…

"ANITA SAYS..."

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Anita Says... Episode 11 | August edition 2024 17:45

36 weeks ago17:45

17:45

Join us for the August edition of Anita Says as we dive into the cultural impact of traditional narratives in dance and the recent controversy surrounding Kamala Harris’s portrayal by JD Vance. We'll explore these and many other pressing issues against the vibrant backdrop of the Paris Olympics. Produced by Kassiyet, New York City, USA https://www.instagram.com/kassiyet/ https://www.kassiyet.com Sound engineering by Baba L Prasad Recording studio Digi Sound Studios, Chennai, India https://www.instagram.com/digisoundstudio_/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anitaratnam.official Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@anitaratnam Website: https://www.anitaratnam.com…

"ANITA SAYS..."

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Anita Says... Episode 10 | July edition 2024 19:18

40 weeks ago19:18

19:18

In this edition, the spotlight turns to core values of Resilience & Excellence and – concepts that do not shift or bend with the changing socio-political climate. How tennis icon Roger Federer's commencement address is also a life plan for all performances. How Instagram is slowly influencing choreography and audience expectations.. Produced by Kassiyet, New York City, USA https://www.instagram.com/kassiyet/ https://www.kassiyet.com Sound engineering by Baba L Prasad Recording studio Digi Sound Studios, Chennai, India https://www.instagram.com/digisoundstudio_/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anitaratnam.official Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@anitaratnam Website: https://www.anitaratnam.com…

"ANITA SAYS..."

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Anita Says... Episode 9 | June edition 2024 21:56

45 weeks ago21:56

21:56

Welcome to the June edition of the Anita Says podcast! In this edition, Anita Ratnam discusses the reaction amongst the community about the Netflix series, Heeramandi. How Indian Dancers are reacting to the ongoing violence in Gaza, and why PRIDE MONTH should increase empathy and tolerance across identity spectrums, particularly in Indian/South Asian dance sectors. Produced by Kassiyet, New York City, USA https://www.instagram.com/kassiyet/ https://www.kassiyet.com Sound engineering by Baba L Prasad Recording studio Digi Sound Studios, Chennai, India https://www.instagram.com/digisoundstudio_/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anitaratnam.official Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@anitaratnam Website: https://www.anitaratnam.com…

"ANITA SAYS..."

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Geeta Chandran on: the role of geography in a dancer's career 24:05

47 weeks ago24:05

24:05

My guest today in the studio is the multiple award-winning performer, choreographer, artist, and speaker Geeta Chandran who discusses the role of geography in a dancer's career. Tune in and listen! Produced by Kassiyet, New York City, USA https://www.instagram.com/kassiyet/ https://www.kassiyet.com Sound engineering by Baba L Prasad Recording studio Digi Sound Studios, Chennai, India https://www.instagram.com/digisoundstudio_/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anitaratnam.official Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@anitaratnam Website: https://www.anitaratnam.com…

"ANITA SAYS..."

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Anita Says... Episode 8 | May edition 2024 18:25

49 weeks ago18:25

18:25

Welcome to the May edition of the podcast Anita Says! This edition discusses the continuing fascination of India based dancers and musicians who flock to North America for their annual performance tours. The importance of observing LEGACY in classical dance And, the urgent need to create safe spaces for the performing arts Produced by Kassiyet, New York City, USA https://www.instagram.com/kassiyet/ https://www.kassiyet.com Sound engineering by Baba L Prasad Recording studio Digi Sound Studios, Chennai, India https://www.instagram.com/digisoundstudio_/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anitaratnam.official Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@anitaratnam Website: https://www.anitaratnam.com…

"ANITA SAYS..."

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Asha Ramesh on: creative journey from Chennai to San Jose 23:02

1 year ago23:02