Arangetram journey

The journey of my Arangetram

An Arangetram, in the world of Bharatanatyam, signifies a dancer’s graduation. It is a rite of passage, marking the culmination of years of rigorous training, dedication, and deep immersion in the classical dance form. It is a significant milestone for a dancer, symbolizing the readiness to perform solo on stage . My journey to Arangetram was not just about mastering the technical aspects of Bharatanatyam but also about discovering my inner strength, discipline, and cultural heritage.

1

The Initial Steps: Laying the Foundation

My journey began at the age of six, when I first stepped into a dance class, attracted by the rhythmic beats and the vibrant costumes. My teacher, a stern yet nurturing guru, introduced me to the basic adavus (steps) and mudras (hand gestures) that form the foundation of Bharatanatyam. The initial years were filled with endless repetitions and a struggle to synchronize my movements with the tala (rhythm). We were also presented with the opportunity to perform short pieces at the annual dance perforamnces organised by my teacher for our dance academy.
2

The Growing Years: Balancing Life and Dance

As I grew older, the complexity of my training increased. Bharatanatyam is not just about physical movement; it is a deeply expressive art form that requires the dancer to convey emotions and stories through abhinaya (expression). It is extremely important to understand the history and cultural significnace behind the dances to convey the story correctly and fully. Balancing schoolwork, social life, and dance practice was challenging. There were times when the pressure seemed overwhelming, but my passion for dance and the unwavering support of my family and guru kept me motivated. Each performance, no matter how small, was a step towards my Arangetram. I participated in local cultural festivals, school functions, and temple programs, gradually building my confidence and stage presence. Every applause, every word of encouragement, and even the constructive criticisms from my guru shaped me into a more refined dancer.
3

The Final Year: Intense Preparation

The year leading up to my Arangetram was the most intense and transformative. My guru and I selected a repertoire that showcased the breadth and depth of my training. The pieces ranged from intricate pure dance numbers like Pushpanjali and Tilana to expressive abhinaya pieces like Varnam and Padam. Each piece required meticulous practice, not just to perfect the choreography but to imbibe the essence of the story and emotions it conveyed. The preparation was grueling. I practiced for three hours at a stretch almost every day, three months before the performance. Daily practices extended late into the night, focusing on stamina, precision, and emotive clarity. There were moments of frustration and self-doubt, but these were counterbalanced by breakthroughs and a growing sense of accomplishment. My family played an indispensable role, providing logistical support, encouragement, and a steady supply of motivation.
4

The Day of Arangetram: A Milestone Achieved

The day of my Arangetram dawned with a mix of excitement and nervousness. Dressed in a resplendent costume, adorned with traditional jewelry, and with my hair neatly tied into a bun, I looked every bit the classical dancer I had always dreamed of becoming. The stage was set, the lights were focused, and the audience awaited. As I performed, each movement felt like a tribute to the years of hard work and dedication. The rhythm of the mridangam, the melody of the violin, and the guiding voice of my guru from the sidelines created a symphony that I was an integral part of. The highlight of the evening was the Varnam, the most demanding piece that tested my endurance and expressive range. When I completed it, the applause and the tears of pride in my parents’ eyes affirmed that I had successfully crossed a significant milestone.
5

Reflections: A Journey Continued

Completing my Arangetram was not the end but a new beginning. It marked my transition from a student to an artist capable of teaching and performing independently. The journey taught me resilience, the importance of cultural roots, and the joy of expressing oneself through art. It instilled in me a sense of discipline that extends beyond dance, influencing all aspects of my life. I truly believe I came out a more evolved and better person aftetr the journey of my arangetram that did not just extend to the past year but the past nine years of learning this beautiful art form.