"Bharatanatyam is not just a dance but a way of life, a medium of storytelling, and a powerful expression of emotions and spirituality."
Q. What inspired you to pursue Bharatanatyam as a career and who were some of your earliest influences?
Choosing Bharatanatyam as a career was one of the best decisions of my life. My inclination toward this art form began at a very young age. My mother had a deep interest in Bharatanatyam, but in her time, societal norms and restrictions did not allow her to pursue it. However, she never let go of her love for the art and introduced me to it at an early age. I started learning Bharatanatyam under my Guru Dr. G Ratheesh Babu When I was 7 years old.
Initially, my excitement stemmed from my fascination with the beautiful costumes and makeup, which made me eager to learn the dance. However, as I progressed in my training, my perspective evolved. Observing my guru’s unwavering dedication and discipline left a profound impact on me. I began to understand the depth and richness of Bharatanatyam beyond its aesthetics.
Furthermore, reading about the legendary Rukmini Devi Arundale, who revolutionized Bharatanatyam and elevated it to a respected classical art form, inspired me immensely. Her vision, perseverance, and contribution to the field made me realize that Bharatanatyam is not just a dance but a way of life, a medium of storytelling, and a powerful expression of emotions and spirituality.
This journey led me to embrace Bharatanatyam not just as a passion but as my profession. It has shaped my identity, given me a purpose, and allowed me to contribute to the preservation and promotion of this beautiful art form.
Q. Can you share with us your most memorable performance experience? What made it stand out?
I have had many memorable performance experiences, ranging from solo recitals to group presentations. However, one moment that stands out vividly in my memory is my performance at the All India Dance Competition in Hyderabad, where I competed in the senior category.
This competition was known to be one of the oldest and most challenging dance competitions in India. Unlike other contests, it had its own set of rules and a structured syllabus that every participant had to follow. The competition format required dancers to perform for a total of thirty minutes, which included a compulsory 20-minute Varnam. The second piece, chosen by the judges on the spot, added an element of unpredictability to the performance.
I began my presentation with the Varnam, ensuring that I maintained the balance of intricate footwork, rhythmic precision, and expressive storytelling. After completing it, I was assigned a Padam by the judges. This was an exciting yet demanding moment for me, as Padam focuses heavily on Abhinaya (expressive storytelling through facial expressions and subtle movements). It was an opportunity to showcase my depth in emotive expression, and I immersed myself completely in the performance.
After I finished, I received heartfelt appreciation from my Guru and several senior artists present in the audience. Their words of encouragement meant the world to me. However, the biggest surprise came when the results were announced—I had secured the first prize! It was an overwhelming moment, especially since I had competed in this prestigious event for two consecutive years without winning. This victory not only validated my hard work but also strengthened my confidence and commitment to Bharatanatyam.
Q. As a teacher, what do you believe are the essential qualities a learner should have to master a dance form?
As a teacher, I believe that Bharatanatyam is not just about graceful movements; it also requires physical fitness. Dancers should pay attention to their posture and alignment, especially their spine, thighs, hips, and feet, to avoid injuries and improve their performance.
The journey of a dancer comes with challenges like physical strain, self-doubt, and setbacks. However, staying motivated and handling criticism positively is important. Instead of feeling discouraged by feedback, dancers should use it to improve.
Bharatanatyam is not just about movement—it also involves understanding rhythm, music, and expressions. A good dancer must be able to connect with the melody and rhythm to bring life to their performance.
Lastly, a dancer should always be open to learning. Listening to feedback from teachers, peers, and audiences helps in continuous growth. With the right mindset and dedication, one can progress and achieve their dreams in Bharatanatyam.
Q. How do you handle the physical demands of Bharatanatyam, and what advice would you give to students who may be struggling?
Bharatanatyam is a classical dance that requires strength, flexibility, and discipline. That’s why I always make sure to do warm-ups daily, especially before practice sessions. These exercises include core strengthening, stretching, squats, and other movements that help in performing strong and graceful dance moves.
Students should focus on strengthening and conditioning their bodies to improve their power and flexibility. They should also work on maintaining proper posture and alignment. Yoga is also very beneficial for dancers, and Surya Namaskar is one of the best exercises to improve flexibility and strength.
Regular practice is essential for building stamina and maintaining the correct posture. However, dancers should be careful not to overexert themselves, as this can lead to muscle injuries.
Lastly, patience is key in classical dance. Progress takes time, and with dedication and consistent effort, dancers can steadily improve and achieve excellence in Bharatanatyam.
Q. Bharatanatyam includes various styles like Jathiswaram, Varnam, Alarippu, Pushpanjali and many more. Performing which of these seems more challenging and why?
In Bharatanatyam, whether it is Jathiswaram, Varnam, Tillana, or any other piece, proper body strength, clean posture, expressions and strong footwork are essential.
According to me, Varnam is the most challenging because it is the longest piece in a Bharatanatyam performance. It usually lasts between 20 to 30 minutes and can even extend up to 45 minutes. Performing for such a long time requires a lot of stamina, strong leg power, and the ability to maintain expressions (Abhinaya) throughout.
Varnam is a beautiful combination of rhythm and expression. It consists of Pallavi, Anupallavi, and several Jathis (rhythmic sequences). Jathis involve strong footwork and intricate movements, which require both strength and control. To perform continuously for 20 to 45 minutes, a dancer must have endurance, proper posture, and well-practiced Abhinaya.
Overall, Bharatanatyam demands a balance of strength, grace, and expression, making it a truly powerful and beautiful art form.
Q. What steps or initiatives do you think are necessary to preserve and promote India’s authentic dance traditions, in the face of increasing popularity of Western dance forms among younger generations in India?
I follow various steps and I think this should help in preserving this art form for a long long time.
Promoting Bharatanatyam at Prestigious Dance Festivals
Showcasing Bharatanatyam at renowned dance festivals helps in preserving and spreading awareness about this rich art form on a larger scale.
Conducting Free Workshops
I strive to organize free workshops in schools and dance institutions, inviting students from various artistic backgrounds. This helps introduce Bharatanatyam to a wider audience and encourages cross-cultural learning.
Engaging with Parents
Interactive sessions with parents are essential to educate them about Bharatanatyam’s significance. Creating awareness among parents ensures their support and encouragement for children to pursue this classical dance.
Incorporating Bharatanatyam in School Curriculums
In many parts of South India, Bharatanatyam is already a part of school education. I hope to see it included in school curriculums across the country, allowing more children to learn and appreciate this art form from a young age.
Raising Awareness About Its Benefits
Bharatanatyam is not just a dance form; it has immense spiritual and physical benefits. Educating the younger generation about its impact on discipline, fitness, and emotional expression will help keep the tradition alive.
Instilling a Sense of Pride
It is important to make students feel proud of Bharatanatyam, encouraging them to represent it on global platforms and showcase India’s cultural heritage to the world.
Keeping the Art Form Relevant
Bharatanatyam is timeless. By adapting to changing times while preserving its essence, we can ensure that this classical dance continues to inspire future generations and remains fresh and meaningful.
Bio
Nisha Mangalampalli, a dancer and choreographer from Mumbai, is the Senior disciple of Dr. Shri G Ratheesh Babu in the discipline of Bharatanatyam. Nisha is the Founder/Creative Director of Abhibhava Art Academy, Mumbai.
She holds a Senior Scholarship from the Central Government of India and has performed in some of the prestigious festivals and events nationwide such as the Nrithyananda Lahari organised by Nrithyathi Kalakshetra (Bhilai), Chembur Natyanjali Festival, Ayyappa Seva Sangam (Goregaon). She has showcased her talent in various competitions at national level such as the All India Artists Association (Shimla), Navya Nataka Samithi (Hyderabad) and many more.
Nisha has been a jury member of several dance competitions across the country such as the All India Dancers Association events & inter college fests. Nisha is the proud recipient of the Silver Play button for having more than 300000 subscribers on YouTube. She also has over 140000 followers on Instagram.
Interviewed by Irene Elina Eldhose
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