Devi Veerappan Karuppiah is a prominent figure in the realm of Indian classical arts in Singapore. Her vision and dedication have been instrumental in establishing Sakthi Fine Arts as a distinguished academy dedicated to teaching Bharatanatyam, Carnatic Music (Vocal), and the traditional Veena.
Devi's journey is a testament to unwavering dedication. She began her training at a young age under Smt. Madhavi Chandrasekharan, mastering the foundational adavus of the Kalakshetra style. Her skills blossomed under the mentorship of Guru Kalaimamani Dr. M.S. Sarala, a senior disciple of the legendary Padma Vibhushan Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam.
Beyond her Arangetram in 1996, Devi pursued academic excellence to match her practical skill. She earned a second Master’s Degree in Fine Arts (Bharatanatyam) specifically under the guidance of Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam, bridging the gap between ancient Shastra and modern performance.
As a choreographer, Devi's work has been showcased across Singapore, India, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia. She is particularly noted for her innovation in integrating Tamil literature into classical dance through thematic Arangetrams, reading clubs, and workshops, ensuring that the stories of our ancestors remain vibrant and relevant.
Today, her leadership at Sakthi Fine Arts continues to nurture the next generation of artists, fostering cultural pride and artistic discipline within the Singaporean community.