A Tribute to the Team Behind the Thanjavur Heritage Showcase
The magnificent Thanjavur-themed lobby display that welcomed guests today was much more than a decorative exhibit—it was a celebration of Tamil heritage, artistry, engineering, teamwork, and dedication. It was Mohan and Uma's vision, born out of a deep admiration for the region's rich history and art — a connection made even more personal by the fact that they were both born there. For their daughter's Arangetram, they wanted to create something truly special — a celebration that went beyond the dance itself, and all the great minds helped to bring their vision to life.
At the heart of this vision was Anou Manavalan, who served as the Main Creative Director and Implementer of the Theme.
The theme was thoughtfully chosen as a tribute to their roots and to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the region. Inspired by the timeless grandeur of Thanjavur's artistic and architectural treasures, Anou envisioned an immersive experience that would transport visitors to the heart of the Chola kingdom. Through the majestic presence of the Periya Koyil Nandhi, the exquisite beauty of Thanjavur painting, and the enduring charm of the iconic Thalaiyatti Bommai, the display sought to showcase the essence of a culture that has inspired generations. From the initial concept and design to the coordination of artists, volunteers, and construction efforts, Anou guided every aspect of the project with passion and purpose. What began as an ambitious idea evolved into a captivating cultural showcase that not only honored the heritage of Thanjavur but also created a meaningful and memorable experience for everyone who entered the lobby.
However, Anou is quick to point out that this was never a one-person achievement.
According to her, \"This was truly a team effort. The commitment, continuous support and hard work of these incredible ladies made every part of this vision possible. They stood by me through countless weekends, weeknights, planning sessions, construction days, painting marathons, and last-minute adjustments. Without their dedication and willingness to give so generously of their time and talents, none of this would have been completed on time.\"
Anou Manavalan
Main Creative Director & Implementer
Anou Manavalan was the visionary heart of the entire Thanjavur Heritage Showcase. From the initial concept and design to the coordination of artists, volunteers, and construction efforts, she guided every aspect of the project with passion and purpose, transforming an ambitious idea into a captivating cultural experience.
What guests witnessed today was the culmination of hundreds of fun hours, learning new skills, and working together toward a common goal. Every challenge was met with determination, every obstacle became an opportunity, and every member of the team contributed something unique and invaluable.
The Women Behind the Magic
This showcase stands as a testament to the remarkable dedication of a group of women who embraced an ambitious challenge and transformed it into reality.
Prema Viswanathan
Primary Artist
Prema Viswanathan, the Primary Artist, served as the artistic backbone of the project. Her creativity, craftsmanship, and unwavering commitment were instrumental in bringing many of the key elements to life.
Sumathi Aravind
Secondary Artist
Sumathi Aravind, the Secondary Artist, provided artistic support. Her attention to detail and willingness to contribute wherever needed helped in the Thanjavur painting frame and also with the Front desk Ganapathi table decoration.
Punitha Koothapiran
Multi-skilled Contributor
Punitha Koothapiran was involved in multiple aspects of the project, contributing both artistic skill and structural expertise. From helping build the internal framework of the Nandhi to shaping and finishing its exterior, her versatility and dedication were indispensable. From the earliest brainstorming sessions and design discussions to the final assembly and finishing touches, she was involved in every step of the way.
Yamini Ramesh
Craftsperson
Yamini Ramesh brought extraordinary energy, patience, and craftsmanship to the project. Her work on the Nandhi's exterior and the Thalaiyaatti Bommai display helped create some of the most visually striking elements of the showcase.
Elizabeth Samala
Dedicated Contributor
Elizabeth Samala brought both hard work and perseverance to multiple areas of the project. Her contributions to the Thanjavur painting frame and Maadum helped ensure that every display reflected the highest level of quality and authenticity.
Kala Sethu
Artist & Collaborator
Kala Sethu played an important role working with Elizabeth in bringing the Thanjavur painting frame and Maadum display to life. Her efforts helped enrich the authenticity and cultural depth of the exhibit.
Helen Wilson
Craftsperson & Builder
Helen Wilson contributed tirelessly across several major displays. Whether working on the Nandhi's internal structure, the Thanjavur painting setup, or the Thalaiyaatti Bommai display, her willingness to help wherever needed exemplified true teamwork and commitment. From day one until the very end, she was a constant presence, never hesitating to take on the toughest cutting and fabrication work.
Sujatha Vendhan
Artist & Designer
Sujatha Vendhan contributed significantly to the Thanjavur painting and Maadum setup, helping create a display that beautifully reflected the artistic heritage and traditions of Thanjavur.
Geetha
Enthusiastic Helper
Geetha helped with so much enthusiasm whenever she got time, contributing her energy and positive spirit to the project.
Sathia
Enthusiastic Helper
Sathia helped with so much enthusiasm whenever she got time, contributing her energy and positive spirit to the project.
Together, these women demonstrated what can be achieved when passion, teamwork, creativity, and cultural pride come together with a shared purpose.
Thanjavur Ther (Temple Chariot)
One of the most remarkable additions to the Thanjavur Heritage Showcase was the beautifully crafted Thanjavur Ther (Temple Chariot), a symbol of devotion, community, and the rich temple traditions of Tamil Nadu. The Ther stands as a testament to the extraordinary craftsmanship and artistic excellence that have been associated with Tamil culture for centuries.
Deva Subramani
Master Craftsperson
This magnificent wooden chariot was entirely designed and built by Deva Subramani and Poonze Rangaswamy, whose dedication, creativity, and attention to detail transformed a simple concept into a stunning work of art. Constructed entirely from wood, the Ther required countless hours of planning, measuring, cutting, assembling, and refining to achieve its intricate appearance and structural precision.
Poonze Rangaswamy
Master Craftsperson
Together with Deva Subramani, Poonze Rangaswamy collaborated in the design and construction of this magnificent wooden chariot. Every component was carefully handcrafted to reflect the elegance and grandeur of traditional temple chariots. From its proportions and decorative details to its overall presentation, no element was overlooked. Their commitment to perfection was evident in every stage of the project, as they continuously refined and enhanced the structure to ensure it captured the beauty and spirit of an authentic Thanjavur Ther.
Front Desk Ganapathi Decoration
The beautiful Front Desk Ganapathi Decoration served as a warm and auspicious welcome for all guests entering the Auditorium.
Abitha Sampath
Designer & Conceptualizer
This elegant decoration was beautifully conceptualized and designed by Abitha Sampath. Chitra Saravanan, Sumathi Aravind and Preethi Aravind played a significant role in bringing the design to life.
Chitra Saravanan
Contributor
Chitra Saravanan played a significant role in bringing the Front Desk Ganapathi design to life, contributing her skills and dedication to this important welcome piece.
Stage and Logistics Support Team
A special tribute is owed to the dedicated team of men who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to transform the stage and venue into a breathtaking setting worthy of this special occasion. While much of their work may not have been visible to the audience, their contributions formed the foundation upon which the entire visual experience was built.
ThirulogaChandar Bodapatti
Technical Lead
ThirulogaChandar Bodapatti was instrumental in multiple critical projects, from constructing and securing large cutouts and display structures throughout the venue to designing and building the mobile platform for the Grand Nandhi. His technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and engineering expertise ensured that every structural element was safely installed and beautifully presented.
Ramesh Sambandan
Builder & Technician
Ramesh Sambandan was instrumental in constructing and securing the large cutouts and display structures throughout the venue, as well as designing and building the mobile platform for the Grand Nandhi. His technical expertise and dedication ensured the structural integrity and visual presentation of all installations.
Koothapiran
Builder & Craftsperson
Koothapiran contributed to multiple critical projects, including constructing and securing large cutouts and display structures throughout the venue, and building the mobile platform for the Grand Nandhi. His problem-solving abilities and technical expertise were invaluable to ensuring the structural integrity of all installations.
Wilson
Builder & Technician
Wilson was instrumental in constructing and securing the large cutouts and display structures throughout the venue, and contributed significantly to designing and building the mobile platform for the Grand Nandhi. His technical skills and problem-solving abilities ensured every structural element was securely installed.
Sebastian
Builder & Technician
Sebastian lent his hands and technical skill to building and securing the display structures throughout the venue. His hard work and reliable support behind the scenes helped bring the showcase to life.
Their first major undertaking was the construction and installation of the grand stage backdrop. From assembling large decorative panels and supporting structures to ensuring everything was securely positioned and visually aligned, they played a critical role in creating the magnificent stage setting that framed the Arangetram performances. Their attention to detail, craftsmanship, and commitment to quality helped bring the creative vision to life. – Mana Gurunathan, Mohankumar Thiyagarajan
Mana Gurunathan
Builder & Stage Construction
Mana Gurunathan played a key role in constructing and installing the grand stage backdrop and the display structures throughout the venue. Their craftsmanship, attention to detail, and dedication behind the scenes helped bring the magnificent stage setting to life.
Mohankumar Thiyagarajan
Stage & Logistics Support
Mohankumar Thiyagarajan played a key role in constructing and installing the grand stage backdrop, and contributed to designing and building the mobile platform for the Grand Nandhi. His dedication behind the scenes helped bring the entire visual experience to life.
In addition, the team was instrumental in constructing and securing the large cutouts and display structures throughout the venue. Their technical skills and problem-solving abilities ensured that every element was safely installed and beautifully presented. – ThirulogaChandar Bodapatti, Ramesh Sambandan, Wilson, Koothapiran
A special note of appreciation is extended for their work in designing and building the mobile platform for the Grand Nandhi. This challenging task required planning, engineering, and teamwork to create a sturdy and movable base capable of supporting one of the centerpiece attractions of the Thanjavur Heritage Showcase. – ThirulogaChandar Bodapatti, Ramesh Sambandan, Wilson, Koothapiran, Mohankumar
Beyond construction, the team also took responsibility for the transportation, loading, unloading, setup, and final placement of the exhibits and decorative elements. Whether moving large structures, assembling displays, adjusting installations, or responding to last-minute needs, they approached every task with enthusiasm, dedication, and a spirit of service.
Their willingness to contribute wherever needed, often performing physically demanding work behind the scenes, made the successful execution of the entire showcase possible. Their teamwork, reliability, and selfless support exemplified the true spirit of volunteerism, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude for their invaluable contributions.
Special Recognition – Uma Mohankumar
No acknowledgment of this project would be complete without expressing our deepest gratitude to Uma Mohan, whose unwavering support and encouragement made this entire endeavor possible.
Simply put, without Uma, this showcase would never have become a reality. She not only provided the opportunity for this vision to take shape but also stood beside the team every step of the way, offering her time, energy, and wholehearted support throughout the journey.
What made Uma's contribution truly special was her willingness to do whatever was needed to help the team succeed. Whether it was coordinating logistics, providing materials, solving unexpected challenges, or simply ensuring that everyone had what they needed to continue their work, she was always there with a smile, a word of encouragement, and an infectious sense of positivity that kept spirits high.
She never hesitated to roll up her sleeves and get involved directly. From helping with hands-on tasks and getting her hands dirty alongside the volunteers to making sure the team was fed during long work sessions, she continuously looked after everyone with warmth and care. Her generosity, hospitality, and genuine appreciation for the efforts of every volunteer created an environment where creativity could flourish and teamwork could thrive.
With Deep Gratitude
The Thanjavur Heritage Showcase is a shining example of what a dedicated community can achieve together. Every brushstroke, every carefully crafted structural component, every late-night work session, and every act of support contributed to creating an unforgettable experience.
This achievement belongs to every volunteer who generously shared their time, talent, and heart. Their efforts transformed a vision into reality and created a beautiful tribute to Tamil culture for all to experience and cherish.
To each member of this remarkable team—thank you for your dedication, your artistry, your perseverance, and your belief in the vision. Your work has left a lasting impression and created memories that will be treasured for years to come.