The acclaimed Bharathanatiyam exponent KJ Sarasa (78) passed away due to cardiac arrest on Monday (January 2) in Chennai.


Sarasa was a dance guru to several high profile students like chief minister Jayalalithaa, Kamal Haasan, Shobhana, writer Sivasankari, choreographer Reghuram and many others.

She is survived by her foster daughter Rajalakshmi,who is the wife of director Venkat Prabhu.
The legendary dance guru popularised her school of dancing and was the first female nattuvanar.
Her contribution to dance won her several titles including Kalaimamani award and prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademy Award.

Chief Minister Jayalalithaa in a condolence message said that her death was a loss to those who were in the field of dance and her contribution to art was immeasurable