This statement foregrounded the authoritarian nature of the power structures at the institution. Indeed, a culture of silencing, threatening, intimidation is part and parcel of the world of institutionalised “classical” dance. With the kinds of histories and “ideals” that Kalakshetra upholds, it would seem to have become a place where the authorities do not want to be questioned at all.
The discussion around these allegations have highlighted how figures of authority have the power to manipulate, control, and steward all those bodies under them.
The faculty members entrusted with the responsibility of teaching these students are also the decision-making authorities for Kalakshetra’s productions; they decide who gets to play important roles in the dance dramas, for example. This takes us back to the question of power that undergirds the problematic relationship between real young women’s bodies and the “imaginary, idealised Sita’s body”.
Dancing is a way of expressing emotions through body moments and narrating different stories which are relatable to the audience. Through dance we show emotions like happiness, anger, sadness, surprise, and shyness. Dance also helps to forget your thoughts and relax your body, mind and enriches your soul.
My experience in dancing is a long and sweet journey. I have been learning dance since childhood. I was so young that I used to refuse to attend the classes,but my mother used to motivate me to attend classes. It is because of her support and motivation I was able to be a good dancer. The form of dance which I have been trained in is Bharatanatyam,which is my most favourite form of dance still date. Bharatnatyam has given me the basics and also a strong foundation to be able to grasp any other form of dance jazz ,contemporary, western and Bollywood with ease.
Bharatnatyam includes “Abhinaya” which means expression and “Adavus” which are the basic to perform the dance form with perfection . This form of dance for me was a great way to express myself and to maintain fitness as well . Whenever I have stage performances it was a divine and most beautiful experience. While presenting a dance peace on stage I used to be fully involved in the dance and the melodies music in the background used to make me get a beautiful feeling of joy.I have completed my junior exam in Bharatnatyam and currently pursuing my senior. It has been a pleasure for me to have performed in many divine places around India. All these achievements were also possible because of my gurus who have trained me all these years with lot of patience and whome I'll be thankful and grateful for the rest of my life.
So, dancing for me has been the most beautiful part of my life.It has given me joy and made me forget everything ,my thoughts and feelings while I dance. Dance will forever hold a special place in my heart.
One firecracker of a jathi in the varnam 'Mogamāginen' in the ragam Kharaharapriya. Really enjoyed dancing to this! The sound of our footsteps is sooo satisfying (~‾▿‾)~
Exciting news came yesterday night about the coveted Padma awards conferred to many. Some cheer for BN!
Vyjayantimala Bali and Padma Subrahmanyam have been conferred Padma Vibhushan!
Others in Dance and Dance related areas who have been conferred Padma Shri are:
Shri Badrappan M from Tamil Nadu is an 87-year-old Valli Oyil Kummi Dance guru, who breaks tradition by training women. He has been…
NATYA KALAI VIZHA
Nrithyostsavam, Bharathanatya Kalai Vizha 2023 will be held on July 22nd & 23rd 2023 at 5.00 pm at Sri Krishna Gana Sabha Mini Hall, T. Nagar. Chennai. Organiser Dr.D. Suresh of Panruti said this event will be inaugurated by Kalaimamani Smt. Nandini Ramani, Senior Bharathanatiyam Exponent and SNA Awardee.
It will be followed by a special performance by Sri M Purushothama Rao…