Bharatanatyam Performances and Classical Artistry
Dance is my first language and the core of my artistic practice. These moments are where I channel the discipline of Bharatanatyam into pure, expressive storytelling.
A short video from a performance at Natanakairali, showcasing the 'Sharada Bhujangam'. This piece is a beautiful prayer, and the choreography by my guru Praveen Kumar is incredibly intricate.
A moment of gratitude on stage. Every performance is a culmination of countless hours of practice, and I feel so thankful for the opportunity to share this art form.
Another still from the same performance, capturing a different posture and expression. The beauty of Bharatanatyam lies in its vast vocabulary of movement.
This still captures the expansive and graceful movement that is characteristic of Bharatanatyam. This was taken during a performance at the Madras Music Academy.
A close-up of the 'abhinaya' or expressive aspect of the dance. Here, I'm conveying a specific emotion as part of the story being told.
A dynamic pose from the same performance. The energy on stage is electric, and it's a feeling I try to carry into all my performative work.
A still from the 'Navarasotsava' performance series. This pose shows the playful and expressive nature of the character I was portraying.
Another shot from the 'Navarasotsava' performance, capturing a moment of storytelling through hand gestures, or 'mudras'.
A similar pose from the same performance, highlighting the subtle shifts in expression that bring a character to life.
A different angle from the 'Navarasotsava' series, showing the precision and form required in classical dance.
About Bharatanatyam: My Foundation
The magic of Bharatanatyam isn't just in the footwork, it is in the 'Navarasa Sadhana'—the daily, disciplined practice of mastering the nine core emotions. Whether I am holding a stance on stage or preparing for a film set, I rely on these techniques to ensure my expressions are genuine and grounded rather than just performative.
My foundation as an artist is rooted in the rigorous training I have received since I was four, especially under my guru, Praveen Kumar. Ten years ago, I didn't know where this path would lead, but every rehearsal has shaped my perspective. Today, each performance—whether at the Madras Music Academy or a smaller, intimate venue—is a lesson in patience, endurance, and grace.
I often get asked how I balance classical dance with my acting career. Honestly, it is the same process. Acting helps my 'abhinaya', the expressive side of my performance, and dance helps my body control on camera. It is a constant feedback loop. When I perform, I treat it as a conversation with the audience. I don't believe in just executing steps. I want the audience to feel the specific 'rasa' I am portraying, whether it is the quiet joy of a Padam or the intensity of a more modern fusion piece. If you are looking for a performance that moves beyond a standard routine to tell a real story, I am here to help. We can talk about custom sets, traditional compositions, or modern classical fusion to fit the specific vibe of your event.
Shreema Upadhyaya
I've been learning Bharatanatyam since I was four, and it is the bedrock of everything I do. It is not just steps, it is the language I use to express everything from deep grief to pure joy. When I am on stage, it is just me, the music, and the story.
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