Bharatanatyam Performances and Solo Choreography
Beyond the steps lies the story. Explore my approach to Bharatanatyam, where traditional repertoire meets new-age thematic explorations like 'Ṛtú Vismruti'.
The synergy between a dancer and the musicians is electric. Here, the rhythmic syllables of the nattuvangam and the beats of the mridangam are not just an accompaniment; they are the very pulse of the dance.
A moment from "Ṛtú Vismruti" at the Dristi National Dance Festival. Here, a student performs with the live orchestra, showcasing the seamless integration of dance and music that is central to our productions.
Capturing the dynamism and energy of Bharatanatyam. This leap, part of our "Ṛtú Vismruti" production, expresses a moment of pure, uninhibited joy in dance.
The beauty of a group choreography lies in its patterns and synchronicity. My Chithkala Ensemble performing a piece from "Ṛtú Vismruti," creating a visual poetry of movement on stage.
Another powerful group formation from "Ṛtú Vismruti." Each dancer, while part of a whole, brings her own energy, contributing to the larger narrative of the performance.
Namaskara. It is an honour to be invited to perform at festivals like Bhaav 2024 in Kochi. In this video, I extend a warm welcome in Malayalam, "Evarkkum swagatham," inviting everyone to share in the art.
I am excited to present "Sakha," a thematic solo performance that explores the nuances of male emotions and companionship. It is a subject I have been working on for years, creating compositions that move beyond the traditional Nayika-centric pieces.
About this collection
When I step onto the stage, the dance is only half the picture; the real conversation happens with the orchestra. My productions, such as 'Ṛtú Vismruti', rely on that connection between the dancer and the musicians—the mridangam, flute, and violin—where rhythmic syllables become the heartbeat of the performance. If you are looking for choreography that brings live music and narrative movement together, let’s discuss the possibilities.
Bharatanatyam is not just about the repertoire; it is a medium for exploring contemporary issues and deeper human emotions. My choreography is rooted in this belief, whether I am presenting a solo or a group ensemble.
My work often challenges traditional norms. For example, in my thematic solo presentation 'Sakha', I explore the nuances of male companionship and emotions—a subject that is often sidelined in favour of the heroine-centric pieces we usually see. This is where I find inspiration in the works of Kalidasa, whose descriptions of nature and society allow me to create dance that is both grounded in tradition and relevant to modern times.
In productions like 'Ṛtú Vismruti', I use Bharatanatyam to address the climate crisis. This requires a seamless integration of classical dance with a modern narrative, ensuring the audience is not just watching, but experiencing the story. My process is highly collaborative, as I believe the synergy between the dancer and the musical ensemble—including vocalists and mridangam artists—is what creates the magic on stage.
I am based in Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, but my performances and choreography workshops take me across India and beyond. Whether you are an event organizer looking for a performance or a fellow artist interested in choreography, my work focuses on honesty, musicality, and a disciplined approach to the Margam. Let us find the right rhythm for your next project.
Praveen Kumar
Namaskara, I am Praveen Kumar. For me, Bharatanatyam is not just a profession; it is a way of life that balances rigorous classical training with fresh, relevant storytelling. Whether I am performing a solo or directing an ensemble, my focus is always on bringing soul and honesty to the stage.
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