It’s with great sadness that we learnt about the passing of a wonderful woman, artist, friend and partner in Singapore, Smt. Neila Sathyalingam. Over the last five years, we have been privileged to witness and learn about all of the many lives she has touched, and her commitment and dedication in serving and strengthening the Indian arts in Singapore.  We will miss her dearly and know that her spirit and legacy will live on for many many years to come.

We would like to share the following statement from our Director, Dr Prashant Nayak, in Neila Mami’s  honour:

At Milapfest today, we heard with great sadness about the passing away of the much loved and revered Bharatanatyam teacher, Mrs Neila Sathyalingam, the founder of Apsaras Arts, Singapore.

Neila Mami, as she was popularly called by her many many students and admirers, was a towering and iconic figure on the arts scene in Singapore, who for many decades worked tirelessly and passionately to promote the learning & performance of Indian Dance in general, and Bharatanatyam in particular.

Along with her husband, Shri S Sathyalingam, she inspired countless young people to learn this beautiful dance style. The excellent quality productions of Apsaras Arts are a testimony to her vision and inspiration, very ably carried forward by Aravinth Kumaraswamy today.

As partners and friends of Apsaras Arts, Milapfest would like to join the many students and admirers of Neila Mami in paying our own humble tribute to her on this sad day. Her life and work will continue to inspire many people in the years to come….

Prashant Nayak

Exec Director, Milapfest