The Artist's Journey: A Life in Bharatanatyam
For me, dance is not just movement, it is a way to find silence in a chaotic world. My journey is about observing life's fleeting moments and bringing them to the stage through Bharatanatyam.
What is the secret to life and art? In this video for the 'Humans of the Arts' series, I share my personal philosophy: finding art in the small, silent moments of observation all around us.
Seeing the Himalayas for the first time, I couldn't help but leap with joy. This video captures a spontaneous dance in the foothills, a moment of feeling connected to the divine energy of nature.
My unfiltered look back at 2023. It was a year of losing myself in art and finding myself in life, a journey of growth and immense joy that I am so grateful for.
A black and white photograph taken in Hampi. Dancing for the gods in such a historic and spiritual place is a feeling of pure bliss and connection.
A beautiful moment from 'Giridhar Nagar ki Meera', another production where I use puppetry to tell stories. Here, I portray Meerabai with the puppets representing her beloved Giridhar Gopala.
About this collection
My performance process starts long before I step on stage. It begins with observing the world around me, whether it is the rhythm of rain or a child's tantrum. I translate these small, real observations into my choreography, ensuring that every movement carries the weight of a lived experience rather than just textbook technique. When you watch me perform, you are seeing a culmination of daily life captured in dance.
Dance for me is family, faith, and stories. My research in the Natyashastra informs my karanas, but my real inspiration comes from the mundane. I believe that if you watch the world with silence in your mind, you can find the narrative for a full one-hour production in the simplest things.
The Philosophy of My Art
My style is built on 'azhutham,' or groundedness. I do not just dance; I tell stories. Whether it is a traditional tale from the Ramayana or a fusion piece with Bombeyaata puppetry, my goal is to make the audience feel the same joy I feel. I am not afraid of mishaps on stage. If my jhumki falls, I turn it into a moment of connection. That is the true 'maja' or joy of a live performance.
Why Live Music Matters
Every show I perform is accompanied by a live orchestra. The Nattuvangam, vocal, Mridangam, flute, and violin create an energy that pre-recorded tracks cannot replicate. This live improvisation allows me to adapt to the audience's mood, making every performance in Bengaluru and beyond a unique event.
Collaborations and Projects
I have spent over a decade honing my craft, moving from the audience in Chennai to the stage as a performer. My work ranges from solo recitals to collaborative theatre. I look for the 'rasa' (essence) in every movement, whether I am performing at a private cultural gathering or a public festival. If you are looking for a performance that blends technical precision with deep, emotional storytelling, I am here to bring that vision to your event.
Divya Hoskere
I am Divya, and for me, the stage is a sacred path. I find my art in the simple things, from the stories my mother told me to the beauty of a rainy day, and I love sharing this unfiltered joy with my audience through Bharatanatyam.
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