We had a casual holiday visit to Atlanta on our way to the Yogaville. Our old students from Bharatakalanjali, Krishna, Subadra and Uma, on our arrival said they had arranged a small reception the next day July 1st. This was without our permission. Any way we did not want to disappoint them.

The so-called small reception turned out to be a big gathering of nearly 300 people in a shopping center hall. Surprisingly the crowd was expecting us to do a lecture cum demonstration. No preparations.

The best thing was the local Bharatanaatyam teachers had brought their siblings and they danced in our honor. They were very happy and enthusiastic in showing us their student’s performance.

After that the crowd expecting us to dance, we did not want to disappoint them, so Shanta sang and I danced  “Varugalaamo Ayya” and small Nritta piece. After the performance a little boy of 10 walked up to me and announced innocently to the astonishment of every one standing around,  “ can I say something, you are the best Bharatanaatyam I have ever seen, if I can dance like you I also want to learn Bharatanaatyam.”   I was so taken aback as if a million-dollar prize had been awarded on me. I told him to write and give me his comment. In a small piece of paper collected from the floor, he wrote thus:

Dear Mr.Dhananjayan, I loved your performance, it was great. Out of all the people I have seen dance you’re the best. My address: 2505 Treecorners Park West At GA 30092 
Phone 770 448 1922 email: BIGV55@hotmail.com

Unfortunately he did not write his name. I cherish the little piece of paper the little boy gave me, like a big International Award citation.