DANCE

I have been learning this classical dance form of India since I was 4 years old. I am part of the Natya Dance Theatre school, led by my teacher Mrs. Hema Rajagopalan, a renowned dancer, teacher, and choreographer. This dance style is comprised of intricate footwork, detailed expressions, and graceful movements that depict ancient Hindu mythology. I have grown significantly through my dance lessons and performances, as they keep me tied to my Indian heritage and culture. 

In July 2019, I had the privilege of performing my Bharatanatyam Arangetram performance at the Performing Arts Center of Dominican University in River Forest, Illinois. This is a solo, three-hour performance that culminates my 14 years of training in this classical dance form of South India.

Arangetram means “ascending the stage.” It is the first formal presentation of a student by her teacher. It marks the completion of dance training, once the student has learned the intricacies and theories of the art over many years. It signifies the dancer’s mastery of the Bharatanatyam art form. The Arangetram is a very auspicious occasion as part of the dance journey. 

Bharatanatyam is a classical dance theatre art of South India that has its roots in the Natyasastra, a 2000-year old treatise on all the arts. It is a complex art that has been evolving with continuity from the past to the present, to entertain, educate and enlighten audiences of all backgrounds. Combining the three aspects of dance---Nritta (pure dance), Nritya (expressional dance), and Natya (drama)—Bharata Natyam seeks to transform the spectators to experience Rasa, a deep aesthetic feeling of enjoyment. The main theme and final goal of the performance, to be interpreted by the dancer and understood by the spectator, is the deeper spiritual import of the eternal quest of the human soul, Atman for union with supreme soul Paramatman and the realization of the interconnectedness of this universe.