Behind the Art: My Bharatanatyam Journey and Creative Process
Dancing is not just about the final performance. Here is a glimpse into the discipline, workouts, and quiet moments that build the foundation for every story I tell on stage.
Early morning practice is essential. This is my sacred time for 'sadhana' or dedicated practice, where I connect with my dance in the quiet hours of the day.
A behind-the-scenes look at a photoshoot with my dance partner and friend, Madhur. We are not siblings by blood, but we are definitely siblings by rhythm.
As a dancer, fitness is key. My morning workouts with my trainer Harsh are crucial for building the strength and stamina needed for demanding performances.
My midweek ritual: Workout Wednesday! From kettlebell swings to pull-ups, this is how I stay focused and energized for a day of dancing and teaching.
A cherished memory with my first Guru, Smt. Saroja Vaidyanathan. She helped me take my first steps in dance, and her guidance during my formative years from age 7 to 15 shaped the artist I am today.
Happy Birthday to my Amma! She has been my constant support, my inspiration, and my friend. I am so grateful for everything she has taught me.
A trip to Mumbai is never complete without a visit to Marine Drive. The walk to rehearsals was so serene, I had to pause and soak in the view.
Dancing through the vibrant rhythm of Mumbai. The energy of this city is infectious, and I love finding moments to dance wherever I go.
You can't take the dance out of the dancer, even at the beach! A happy, sunny moment captured by my Amma.
A silhouette against the sunset on a black sand beach in Reunion Island. Moments like these, where nature's art meets my own, are truly magical.
About Behind the Art: My Journey & Process
A perfect performance starts long before the makeup is applied or the stage is lit. My day usually begins with 'sadhana' (dedicated practice) and strength training to ensure the stamina required for those complex jathis. It is this consistent routine that allows me to sustain the energy needed for a full-length Bharatanatyam recital or an intense dance drama.
For me, the stage is simply an extension of the work I put in behind the scenes. Whether I am preparing for a solo recital or a complex, multi-member production like 'The Wheel of Choices', the preparation remains constant.
My Philosophy of Practice
Bharatanatyam is a demanding art form. To keep my body and mind ready, I integrate modern fitness—like kettlebell swings and pull-ups—with the traditional rigour of classical dance. This balance is what I try to teach my students at SGDA as well. We work to build discipline, but the goal is always peace (shanti) and joy.
From Rehearsal to Stage
Behind every performance is a team effort and a series of rituals. You will often see me in these photos engaging in the small moments that ground me: walking to rehearsals in Mumbai, sharing a laugh with my troupe, or simply finding a quiet corner to focus on the 'abhinaya' (expressions) before a show.
The Collaborative Process
I do not create in a vacuum. My work with musicians, fellow dancers, and lighting designers is vital. When we perform stories from the Mahabharata or the poems of Sarojini Naidu, it is the collaborative energy that brings the characters to life. If you are interested in bringing a classical element to your event, I invite you to reach out. We can discuss how to translate your vision into a performance that is both technically strong and deeply engaging.
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