Our Story
In early 2021, right before the COVID pandemic, Helsinki held a special dance performance showcasing bharatanatyam, one of India's oldest classical dance forms. Ramya Sri, our founder, who entered as a member of the audience, walked out moved and determined. Having grown up in a culturally vibrant household and lived in Finland for over two decades, she felt a strong absence of a major platform which promoted and uplifted the Indian classical arts - especially one that could offer lasting experiences like the performance she had just witnessed.
A year later, Sanskriti Suomi was born. The first ever Vasantotsav was organised taking inspiration from the Ramayana, an ancient epic, and stringing the entire story through classical music, dance and drama. The production was extremely well received, drawing praise from the local audience while captivating children and second-generation Indians living in Finland.
Since then, Sanskriti Suomi has grown steadily, maintaining its commitment to offering high-quality performance avenues for the classical arts, alongside providing opportunities for inter-cultural collaboration and interactions that kindle children's interest in Indian tradition and culture.
Founder's Note
"I grew up surrounded by the rich traditions and cultural heritage of India. When I moved to Finland, I was deeply moved by the way Finnish people cherish and preserve their heritage through music, dance, and community traditions. Over time, I began to reflect on how the next generation of Indian children in Finland could remain connected to their roots, while also sharing India’s cultural treasures with the Finnish society.
During the quiet, reflective years of the pandemic, this thought became a calling, leading to Sanskriti Suomi. Our organisation celebrates Indian classical arts, fosters collaborations with native Finnish artists, and works with a mission to give the next generation the gift of balance—embracing the richness of both East and West."
- Ramya Sri (Founder & Director)
Our Team, Powered by Volunteers
Sanskriti Suomi is managed by a board consisting of Full-time Members along with Supporting Members, Creative Advisors, Advisory Members and Honorary Members.
Every event, initiative, and experience is made possible by the dedication of our volunteers. They are the core of our organisation and the reason we thrive.
"Sanskriti Suomi is doing remarkable work in promoting Indian arts in Finland. Ramya and Kalyanaraman work tirelessly to support local artists while bringing renowned masters of Indian classical music and dance to Finnish audiences. Their meticulous planning, warm hospitality, and deep passion make every event a true cultural bridge deserving strong support."
- Dr Jyotsna Srikanth (Member of the Order of the British Empire and acclaimed violinist)
