Author: Gayatri Deka
I still remember the feeling of tying the salangai, the heavy ankle bells, for the first time. The sound they made was not just a jingle; it was a call, an awakening. In that moment, I was a young girl taking her first steps on a sacred path that would come to define my life. That path is Bharatanatyam, and it is so much more than a dance-it is a conversation with centuries of tradition, a discipline for the soul, and a vibrant, living language.
For over two decades, as a disciple, a performer, and now as a guru at my Bharatanatyam school in Dwarka, Delhi, I have dedicated my life to this art form. I have seen it transform timid children into confident performers and provide a sanctuary of peace for busy adults. People often see the grace and the beauty on stage, but I want to invite you deeper, into the heart and soul of this enchanting world, and share the journey of what it truly means to learn Bharatanatyem.
Unveiling the Soul of Bharatanatyam: A Language of Bhava, Raga, Tala, and Natya
My own revered Guru, the late Padma Bhushan awardee Dr. Saroja Vaidyanathan, always taught me that the name ‘Bharatanatyam’ holds the key to its soul. It is a beautiful acronym derived from four Sanskrit words:
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Bhava (Expression): This is the emotional core. It is the ability to convey a story not just with your body, but with your eyes, your smile, the slightest tilt of your head. It is the art of baring your soul to the audience.
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Raga (Music): The melody is our guide. The notes of the Carnatic music dictate the mood, the sentiment, and the emotional landscape of our performance. To dance is to make the music visible.
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Tala (Rhythm): This is the heartbeat of Bharatanatyam. The intricate, mathematical precision of the footwork, stomped in perfect time, provides the dance with its foundational energy and structure.
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Natya (Drama): This is the art of storytelling. It is the seamless fusion of all the above elements to create a dramatic, cohesive, and captivating narrative.
When these four elements come together, the dance transcends mere movement and becomes a profound, transformative experience.
My Journey: From a Disciple’s Devotion to an Artist’s Expression
My own path in Bharatanatyam was forged through years of unwavering discipline and the immense privilege of learning from the very best. As a senior disciple of Guru Dr. Saroja Vaidyanathan and Guru Anuradha Venkataraman, my training was rigorous. It was about much more than technical perfection; it was about immersing myself in the philosophy, the history, and the spiritual devotion that underpins every gesture.
I remember the mix of terror and exhilaration during my Arangetram (debut solo performance) in 2008. It is a moment every dancer works towards-a culmination of years of hard work and a new beginning as a performing artist. That day cemented my commitment, and it has since been an illustrious journey, leading me to become a Doordarshan-graded artiste and perform on prestigious stages. But for me, the greatest honour is carrying forward the legacy of my gurus.
The Transformative Power of Learning: What I See in My Students
Founding my Bharatanatyam school in Dwarka was a natural extension of this journey. It is one thing to perform, but it is another to witness the transformative power of this art in others. I see the benefits unfold every day in my classes.
Cultivating Physical Grace and Strength
Students often begin with the desire to improve their fitness, and they are never disappointed. Bharatanatyam is a demanding physical discipline that cultivates incredible strength, flexibility, and poise. I see children who walk in shyly, and after months of practice, they stand taller, their posture corrected by the dance’s inherent discipline. It builds a connection to one’s own body that is both powerful and graceful.
Sharpening the Mind’s Focus
In a world of constant digital distractions, the focus required to master a rhythmic sequence or a piece of abhinaya is a form of deep meditation. It sharpens concentration and instils a sense of calm. I see this bring a unique clarity to my students-from young learners who improve in their studies to working professionals who find a welcome respite from their busy lives.
Connecting with Our Cultural Roots
For many of my students, especially those growing up in a bustling, modern city like Delhi, Bharatanatyam becomes a powerful bridge to their heritage. They don’t just learn a dance; they learn the stories of our gods, the wisdom of our epics, and the beauty of our traditions. It is a way of keeping our culture alive and vibrant in their own hearts.
An Invitation to Begin Your Own Journey
The timeless tales woven by Bharatanatyam await your interpretation, and the grace of this dance form can become your own. My academy in Dwarka, Delhi, serves as a beacon for those who wish to explore this ancient art. My teaching is built on a foundation of personalised instruction, tailored to each student’s needs, drawing inspiration from my rich experience while using innovative methods to make the learning process joyful.
Whether you are drawn by the physical benefits, the mental stimulation, or the deep cultural connection, Bharatanatyam has something to offer everyone. If you have ever felt the pull of the salangai’s call, I invite you to commence your journey with me. Let us explore the heart and soul of this classical dance together.
FAQs on Learning Bharatanatyam with Kalashree Gayatri Deka
1. What is the history of Bharatanatyam?
Bharatanatyam is a classical Indian dance form with roots in the ancient temples of Tamil Nadu. Its history is documented in ancient texts like the Natyashastra, and its postures are immortalised in temple sculptures. It has been preserved and passed down through a sacred Guru-Shishya (teacher-disciple) tradition.
2. How does learning Bharatanatyam benefit me physically?
Bharatanatyam is a holistic exercise that greatly enhances physical fitness. It systematically improves your flexibility, core strength, stamina, and posture. The intricate footwork builds strong legs, while the graceful movements tone the entire body.
3. Can I learn Bharatanatyam if I have no prior dance experience?
Absolutely! I firmly believe that passion and dedication are the only true prerequisites. My academy in Dwarka caters to learners of all backgrounds, from absolute beginners to experienced dancers. We provide personalised, step-by-step instructions to ensure every student can embark on this journey with confidence.
4. What cultural aspects are associated with Bharatanatyam?
Bharatanatyam is a cultural bridge to India’s rich heritage. The dance pieces, or items, often revolve around stories of Hindu gods, tales from great epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, and devotional poetry. Learning the dance provides a deep and immersive understanding of Indian traditions, philosophy, and mythology.
5. How can I get started with learning Bharatanatyam under Kalashree Gayatri Deka?
To begin your enchanting dance journey with me in Bharatanatyam classes in Dwarka, Delhi, you can simply contact the school. We will provide you with all the guidance you need on our class schedules, the enrolment process, and what to expect as you take your first wonderful steps into the world of Bharatanatyam.
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