BHARATANATYAM - My Experience

BHA-for Bhava(Emotions) RA-for Raga(Music) TA- for Tala(Rhythm)

Bharatanatyam is a classical form of dance originating in Tamil Nadu.

It takes seven years to complete the Bharatanatyam course which ends with Arangetram. Arangetram means ascending the stage which marks the completion of the dance training. It is a stage performance given by the dancers who dress up in traditional attire and perform with live music in front of their gurus and an audience.

I started Bharatanatyam at the age of six along with three of my friends. At the start of this course, I had a hard time remembering the steps or maintaining the right posture. It took me years of practice to have proper hand-leg coordination and expressions with it. My teachers helped me a lot in my journey by rehearsing continuously with me and not giving up on me. My legs and hands would turn sore, yet I practised and dedicated an hour each day to attain excellence. I understood that I didn't have to take dance as a burden, instead, I had to just enjoy and appreciate it. Soon I became better in my expressions and could perform fluently and smoothly. My friends, teachers and I worked together as a team and helped each other in the steps, expressions and coordination. After seven years of learning and practice, the final day, the Arangetram had arrived, I was really excited, confident and ready to perform in front of my gurus and family members. That day, everyone in my group performed exceptionally in their solo performance as well as group performances. Our hard work has paid off, and I still cherish the memories every day. Even after finishing Bharatanatyam, I still practice it every week and have choreographed many dances.